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Aug
Co-working space created in Ripon in memory of photographer Paul Oldham
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A co-working space has been created in the Ripon studio used by late photographer Paul Oldham.
Mr Oldham, whose work frequently appeared on the Stray Ferret, died suddenly in May this year.
The Light Room Photography Studio on Queen Street where he worked has been refurbished and repurposed to provide £20-a-day office space with hot desks and kitchen facilities.
The late Paul Oldham was based at the studio. Pic: Tim Flanagan, of the Rejoicing in Ripon Blog for Ripon BID
Named in Mr Oldham’s memory, The Light Room at Jion Studios, where husband-and-wife Ady and Nicola Gray run The Karate Dojo and Exhale Yoga businesses, offers self-contained and secure co-working space with shower facilities.
Mr Gray said:
The Light Room Photography Studio was the inspiration of our dear friend Paul.
He created a relaxed and welcoming place where people felt comfortable, where conversations happened naturally and friendships and connections were made.
Paul had a genuine passion for people and understood the importance of community, human connection and the positive impact these can have on our mental wellbeing.
Jion, which in Japanese means 'love and goodness'. Pic: Ady Gray
Among The Light Room’s first customers is Katie Reeves who, with fellow businesswoman Sarah Lewis, set up the Medley Ripon co-working group, whose bid to have permanent premises in the city centre did not come to fruition.
Ms Reeves said: “What Ady and Nicola have set up here is tremendous and has proved ideal for me. I wish them every success.”
Mr Oldham’s photography is displayed throughout the building.
Lilla Bathurst, manager of Ripon Business Improvement District, said:
The need for a permanent location in Ripon for the city's growing co-worker community was identified by Katie and Sarah but sadly their search for appropriate premises was not successful.
With this in mind, it is good to see the launch of Ady and Nicola's new venture, which goes some way towards meeting the clear demand for co-working facilities in the city.
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