EXHIBITION-GOERS ARE BOWLED OVER BY PLANS FOR CRE NORTH

LESS THAN A MONTH BEFORE England faced Australia at Old Trafford, news of CRE’s next innings in Manchester was outlined to more than 50 guests at the atmospheric venue.

Representing businesses, missions and churches from across the North West and beyond, those attending heard from Bishop Tony Porter, formerly vicar of Holy Trinity Platt in Manchester, and Mark Mitchell, founder of the Mitchell Group car dealership at Cheshire Oaks. They praised the vision of owner Steve Goddard for bringing CRE North to the BEC Arena on 15-16 May next year.

“The exhibition is a vital opportunity for Christians of all denominations to find something to assist them in their ministry and witness,” said Mark, a former High Sheriff of Chester. In a wideranging interview he admitted to beginning his commercial life at eight years of age, selling hamsters in the school playground.

Having been set up in 1990 with £100 share capital and a £10,000 bank overdraft, the Mitchell Group now employs 100 people, with a turnover of £50m – in spite of the dealership not opening on a Sunday.

Mark recalled the time when a major car manufacturer wanted to change the franchise terms to ensure dealers were open on a Sunday. Despite the impact it would have on his company, Mark refused to continue with the manufacturer, telling them: “I am more accountable to my maker than any auto manufacturer.”

The interview followed entertainment from Wirral-based Christian magician Steve Price, a Gold Star member of The Magic Circle and one-time winner of the Circle’s Originality Prize.

Brett Pitchfork, CRE event director, explained how CRE North 2024 will be the first one in Manchester for five years.

“It was the preferred venue of the majority of our 160-plus exhibitors,” said Brett. “Within the first two weeks of stand sales more than 25% of the floor space had already been taken.”

Speaking before the event, Rt Revd David Walker, Bishop of Manchester, said: “We are delighted CRE is returning to Manchester. Here is an opportunity for dozens of organisations to bring skills, services, ideas and resources to the North and for members of all church traditions to come and draw inspiration from them.” q

• To book a stand at CRE North 24 contact James Batterbee on 0161 250 2306; email james@creonline.co.uk or Carol Malpas on 0161 250 2467; email carol@creonline.co.uk