“VIEWS of Stalybridge” – the largest schools exhibition ever held in the town – has opened at the civic hall.

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The works on show have been created by 440 pupils spanning years 1 to 6 at seven of the town’s primary schools: Arlies, Buckton Vale, Gorse Hall, Millbrook, Silver Spring, St Paul’s and St Peter’s, as part of the Greater Manchester Town of Culture programme’s youth strand.

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Produced in partnership with professional artists Nerissa Cargill Thompson and Kiran Lee, the exhibits give a children’s perspective on Stalybridge’s rich and fascinating heritage and the communities which have always been at its heart.

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The town’s many features such as canals, railways, industry and the rugged moorland landscape, are all reflected.

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Cllr Sangita Patel, Tameside Council’s assistant executive member for culture, heritage and digital inclusivity, said: “What makes ‘Views of Stalybridge’ so special is that it has school pupils’ creativity and engagement at its core.

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“It has been wonderful to see the children working together and with the two professional artists to produce such a special exhibition. It allows us to gain an insight into the way they see their town and its rich and varied history. It’s well worth a visit.”

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Nerissa Cargill Thompson originally trained in theatre design but developed an interest in fibre art and a desire to develop personal artwork. She is a member of Prism Contemporary Textiles Collective, Society for Embroidered Work, and the Society of British Theatre Design. Kiran Lee is an experienced printer, designer and tutor. Her works explore natural cycles, interior and exterior landscapes utilising print and dye processes to create mood and atmosphere applied to a range of backgrounds. Kiran is a member of HotBed Press, Printmakers Studio.

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“Views of Stalybridge” can be viewed at Stalybridge Civic Hall, Trinity Street, until Wednesday, October 26. The building is open 10am to 3pm but is closed on Sunday.

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