LONGRIDGE IN THE FRAME
Dig out your brushes, pencils and crayons because this July the town will host Create Longridge for the third year running, writes Olivia Beaty. Photography: Sarah Valentine and Steven Spall
A team of Longridge locals are once again working hard to prepare for the event of the year, Create Longridge, which will take place this summer on Saturday 14th July. The event invites professional and amateur artists, from near and far, to take part in this fantastic competition.
Artists will be set the challenge of creating a brand new, original artwork on a blank canvas in one day. They will be positioned around Longridge where visitors can pass by and watch them in action. Participants can work in a style of their choice and can feature anything from the bustling high street to the surrounding landscape, or something not visible from Longridge.
“Last year we had a grand total of 82 competing artists,” Alistair Sheret of Longridge Gallery told me. “This year it would be fantastic if we saw a record-breaking number of artists taking part.”
Note the date and come down to the beautiful town of Longridge and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere, whilst browsing the range of independent boutiques and shops. Enjoy a bite to eat in the high street’s cosy cafes or a beer or two in one of the local bars.
Last year’s fringe events programme was a roaring success and included local schools, willow weaving, a ‘music heroes’ competition and the creation of a group textile piece. Watch this space for updates to this year’s extensive programme, which provides activities for all ages.
This year’s first and third prize sponsors have been confirmed, with the first prize sponsor being Raymond James, Berry Lane. Wayne Hayhurst founder and branch principal of the business, says: “We are honoured to be sponsoring this amazing event, which fuses together the community, culture and the picturesque town. I have lived in and around Longridge all my life and have always admired the community spirit.”
The third prize sponsor will again be Hoppy Days micropub, Derby Road. A huge thank you to these local businesses and to Swifts Hardware, TPW Design, Oh Sew Crafty, Ribble Valley Borough Council, Longridge Town Council, Longridge Gallery and Live Magazines who have already helped in many ways to make this day possible.
How can you get involved? Please get in touch if you have any innovative ideas to enhance the event. If you would like to become a volunteer or if you are interested in becoming a sponsor get in touch via the contact details below, or if nothing else, just pray for some sunshine on the day!
Perhaps you think you have what it takes to follow in Steve Rostron’s winning footsteps? Then register online now. Visit the website and sign up today! Keep your eye out for further announcements.
info@createlongridge.co.uk
www.createlongridge.co.uk
facebook/createlongridge
instagram/createlongridge
twitter@cr_longridge
