As Grantham’s refurbished Market Place nears completion, residents and visitors are getting involved in free craft workshops taking place throughout August.
Visitors are invited to help craft huge, colourful lanterns and other decorations which will set the stage for a vibrant community festival planned for the autumn.
The first sessions have seen the construction of large sheep, symbolic of the town’s key role in the wool trade throughout the medieval period.
Cllr Paul Stokes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: “It is fantastic to see our community come together to get involved in the first wave of craft workshops.
“The decorations they produce together will play an important part in celebrating everything that is great about Grantham and its communities later in the year.
“There’s lots of opportunity to get involved as we’re also asking residents and visitors to share with us their memories and stories about the town.”
The workshops form part of the planned activity funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Future High Street Fund.
The project includes the regeneration of Grantham Market Place, improvements at the Station Approach junction and refurbishment of historic buildings.
As well as craft activities, wandering street performers will also keep the town entertained with performances on Saturday 24 and Saturday 31 August.
Barmpot Theatre will take audiences on an adventure with a barn owl with big dreams while Boondog Balladeers will showcase their travelling folk band, unearthing stories through enchanting songs.
Emilie Nunn, who is coordinating the workshops has shared her excitement about the ongoing events: “It has been wonderful to see so many people help us create something special for Grantham’s Festival of Community later in the year. The lanterns will look fantastic showcased at the event.”
“It has also been a pleasure to have some fascinating conversations with locals who have shared their memories of the town during our workshops. There’s still plenty of time to get involved so please do come down to a session to take part.”
Remaining dates for the free community workshops:
The Clock, 12-13 Westgate, Grantham, NG31 6LT (10am-3pm)
- Saturday 24th August + Barmpot Theatre performances
- Wednesday 28th August
- Thursday 29th August
- Saturday 31st August + Boondog Balladeers performances