AN AUTUMN day filled with creativity, colour and community spirit marked the fourth birthday of an arts centre in Mossley.
Visitors of all ages joined in a packed day of free activities at The Vale – from early morning yoga to stilt walking, crafting sessions, and a pop-up cafe offering refreshments throughout.
Families followed a nature trail led by artist Matt Catt, while others tried their hand at adult crafting or joined a taster session with the Knights of the Vale games masters.
Outdoors, the Our Space garden was brought to life with seasonal workshops making use of the fallen autumn leaves.
Inside, visitors had the chance to explore cultural traditions with the Dipak Dristi social group, who invited guests to try on colourful saris, while dance artist Olivia Peers from Born & Bread Dance Theatre led a lively Carnival music and movement workshop.
The celebrations also featured a burst of Brazilian rhythm from Juba do Lea, who offered an energetic introduction to samba beats and dance.
First launched on a shoestring 13 years ago, the venue, in Vale Mill on Micklehurst Road, underwent a £1 million transformation in 2021, becoming home to the Northern Carnival Centre of Excellence.
Amelia Bayliss, General Manager at The Vale, said: “Celebrating milestones like our birthday each year with the communities who attend The Vale is always so special.
“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.”
