Images by Tameside Council
EXCITEMENT is building for the second helping of a new early evening pop-up arts and food event in Ashton town centre.
‘Fridays on the Square’ is a monthly event being trialled by Tameside Council until the end of the year, offering an opportunity to relax, kick back and socialise with family and friends.
The next one is taking place on October 6 from 4pm to 8pm.
The inaugural street festival on September 1 saw over 1,000 people join in the fun on Fletcher Square, enjoying food, drink, free crafts and live entertainment – provided on that occasion by one-man band Stompin’ Thompson, Northern Acoustic and Ska band Madame Claude.
There was a varied and mouthwatering menu courtesy of street traders, including Thai and Indian dishes, wood-fired pizza, toasted cheese sandwiches, wraps, churros, ice cream and more.
The indoor market hall stayed open and the fabled Black Knight even put in an appearance, courtesy of Ashton Town Team.
Councillor Sangita Patel, Tameside Council’s assistant executive member for culture, heritage and digital inclusivity, said: “The success of the opening event surpassed our expectations.
“People from all age groups were there and there were lots of families too. It all served to create a lively, exciting atmosphere at a time when there wouldn’t usually be many people in the town centre.
“Our first Fridays on the Square in Ashton event proved to be precisely the sort of feelgood gathering that has served to put Stalybridge on Greater Manchester’s food and drink map. I’m sure it will go from strength to strength.”
The event has been fully funded from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund for Communities and Place for the Ashton Creative Improvement District.