Autumn fun marks fourth birthday of The Vale in Mossley

An autumnal day of creativity, movement and community spirit marked the fourth birthday of Mossley arts centre The Vale at the weekend, with a host of free activities enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

The celebration began bright and early with a morning yoga session, setting the tone for a relaxed and welcoming day. Throughout the centre and its gardens, families, young people and adults took part in a wide range of hands-on workshops and drop-in sessions.

Children explored the natural world on a family nature trail led by Matt Catt, while the falling leaves in the Our Space garden were put to good use for outdoor crafting and seasonal play. Indoors, the Dipak Dristi social group invited visitors to try on beautifully patterned saris, sharing stories and culture along the way.

Crafting tables were set out for adults to get creative, and those looking for something a little different were able to try their hand at a stilt walking taster session or join Knights of the Vale games masters for a playful introduction to roleplay and tabletop adventures.

Dance also played a special part in the celebrations. Dance artist Olivia Peers, from Born & Bread Dance Theatre, led a lively Carnival music and movement workshop. Meanwhile, Juba do Leã brought rhythms and dance influences from Brazil, giving participants a whistle-stop tour of vibrant cultural beats.

A pop-up café and welcoming community atmosphere meant that visitors could relax and spend the day enjoying the space.

The Vale is no stranger to evolution and creativity. First established on a small budget 13 years ago, the building received a landmark £1 million upgrade in 2021 with the opening of the Northern Carnival Centre of Excellence, cementing its status as a hub for arts, performance and community collaboration in Mossley and beyond.

General Manager Amelia Bayliss said it was wonderful to mark the milestone with the people who make The Vale what it is.

“Celebrating milestones like our birthday each year with the communities who attend The Vale is always so special,” she said.

“This year we added more activities for older children and the chance to get hands-on with tools. As we grow, these events do too, and we can’t wait to celebrate our fifth birthday with everyone next autumn.”