Stalybridge in the frame

FREE photography workshops helping people to capture panoramic views of Tameside will be offered thanks to a newly awarded Stalybridge Town of Culture grant.

Tameside Council has awarded the grant to Ashton Photographic Society, who are planning to use the newly installed ‘Views of Tameside’ giant picture frame at Gorse Hall for their workshop.

The incredible structure, which was commissioned by the council with funding from GM Arts and designed and made by willow-weaving Manchester artist Cherry Chung, has been made with steel and willow to create a real focal point that frames the picturesque Tameside landscape all the way to Hartshead Pike.

Ashton Photographic Society plan to run workshops for beginners with a qualified photography teacher as well as experienced photographers which will include a practical session taking place at Gorse Hall Park focusing on the frame. Keep an eye out on  www.intameside.co.uk for further details of the workshops.

A key feature of the Stalybridge Town of Culture 2022 programme includes projects that enable people to slow down, connect with the local environment and celebrate its cultural value. Tameside Council’s community grant fund has been developed to support activities and events being created for Stalybridge by community groups and individuals in line with this theme. For more details on applying for grants see www.tameside.gov.uk/townofculture

Tameside Council Assistant Executive Member for Culture, Heritage and Digital Inclusivity Cllr Sangita Patel said: “It’s exciting to see Stalybridge Town of Culture bringing these wonderful projects together to provide a really special opportunity for local people to explore their creativity and connect with their environment.

“I would encourage people to find out more about the photography workshops and book on. In the meantime anyone can take a stroll with their phones and cameras up to the giant frame. It really is a sight to behold, perfectly framing the beautiful surrounding landscape and it’s a fantastic focal point for all photography enthusiasts.”

Anyone who visits the frame is encouraged to share their photos using the hashtag #InTameside on Instagram, or tag @intameside.

Pictured: Cllr Sangita Patel with members of Ashton Photographic Soceity at the Views of Tameside frame