Artists, organisations and community groups have been recognised at the Rochdale Culture Awards held at Rochdale Town Hall. Seven winners were selected from 19 finalists during the borough’s Greater Manchester Town of Culture programme.
The awards marked the closing weekend of Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025 to 2026, celebrating contributions to the local arts and cultural scene.
Creative of the year was awarded to Hayley Garner, a Rochdale born artist known for large scale murals across Rochdale and Heywood. Her work focuses on human connection and has transformed public spaces. She also supported young artists through mentoring at the FAB Youth Arts Festival.
Darnhill Festival received cultural event of the year. Organised by Cartwheel Arts with local partners, the community led event attracted more than 2,000 visitors and promoted youth involvement through its young producers programme.
Skylight Circus Arts collected both the health and wellbeing award and the community award. The organisation delivers inclusive circus workshops and performances across the region, supporting people of all ages and abilities.
Young creative of the year went to indie rock band PoolEra, formed by students in Milnrow. The group has built a growing audience while also working with young people through mentoring and community activity.
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The heritage award was presented to South Asian Heritage Rochdale for developing a large scale festival celebrating culture, identity and lived experience at Rochdale Town Hall.
M6 Theatre Company received the cultural legacy award for its work producing theatre for children and young people.
During the ceremony, recognition was also given to Hebe Reilly for her contribution to the borough’s cultural sector, including her leadership role at Cartwheel Arts and work with the Rochdale Borough Culture Network.
The event included live performances and contributions from local artists, musicians and creatives.
Pete Courtie, head of culture and placemaking at Rochdale Development Agency, said the awards celebrated those “using culture and creativity to make a real difference”.
Estelle Rowe, chief executive of Your Trust, said the standard of finalists was very high and praised the level of creativity across the borough.
The awards were supported by several local organisations and formed part of a wider programme of cultural activity across the year.
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