Summer Programme has Something for All

WHETHER your children like to be indoors or outdoors, watching a show or taking part in crafts, there’s something for all of them in Tameside Council’s exciting programme of summer holiday activities which starts on Tuesday, August 1.

For those who enjoy crafts, there’s the regular, family-friendly Make, Do and Play sessions at Portland Basin, led by artist Rachel Wood. They are suitable for youngsters of all ages and cost just £1.30 per child.

The Ashton museum is also hosting an Our Museum day on Saturday, August 3. It features activities such as clog dancing and canal painting, and the chance to win a certificate of achievement by completing all the zonal challenges.

If the great outdoors is more your children’s thing, the free Wild at Heart programme offers the opportunity to explore nature in beauty spots across the borough including Stalybridge, Hyde, Droylsden and Ashton.

Experts will be on hand to help you revel in the biodiversity of wetlands and woodlands, learn about myths and folklore, enjoy stories and spot bugs, birds, and flowers. Create bunting and scented playdough, do some willow weaving, play a role in a magical story or help to make some large-scale land art. They’re all available.

The return of the ever-popular Theatre in the Park programme starts on the weekend of Sunday, August 5 and 6, with “The Crew”, a tale of survival on the high seas, presented by The Fabularium in Cheetham’s Park, Stalybridge.

An associated workshop called WET takes place at the Astley Cheetham Art Gallery, Stalybridge, on August 4.

Next, it’s “The Crossroads” in Hyde Park (August 8); the Giant Balloon Show at King George V Playing Fields, Ashton, (August 15) and Hollingworth Primary School (August 16); and two “Falconry Dismay” shows at Ryecroft Hall, Audenshaw (August 24). No real birds are used.

The TIP programme ends on Wednesday, 30 August, with Folksy Theatre bring their retelling of children’s classic “The Ugly Ducking” to The Moat at Mossley Park.

Cllr Sangita Patel, Tameside Council’s assistant executive member for culture, heritage and digital inclusivity, said: “The council’s cultural services team has put together an excellent programme of activities that offers something for everyone, no matter what age, interest or ability.

“These events offer a great chance for families to have some very enjoyable days out whatever the weather.”

For full details of all the summer holiday activities, including places, times and booking details, visit www.intameside.co.uk