Book is launched to celebrate culture in east Manchester

A new book celebrating twelve months of creativity and fun in east Manchester is to be launched today.

Called Snapshot, it's written and compiled by Len Grant, using a selection of photographs, many of which are his own. The book captures the spirit and diversity of culture in east Manchester with the aim of inspiring others to get involved in cultural projects in the future.

A total of £65,000 was invested in cultural projects by New East Manchester and Manchester City Council in the last year and this helped attract many thousands of pounds of additional funding and resources as well as hundreds of hours of people's time which is given for free.

Over 10,000 East Manchester residents have been involved in a diverse range of projects highlighted in the book including creating a 35-metre mosaic, writing drama scripts for radio, hanging upside down on a trapeze, learning to sing and taking a turn as a stand-up comedian.

Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council said: "Snapshot is an original look at life in east Manchester illustrating the energy and vibrancy of the local community. The book documents the success of the cultural projects and activities that have been running over the past year, which have had an extremely positive impact in the area, bringing people together, encouraging creativity, and producing some inspiring and exciting work."

Eddie Smith, Chief Executive of New East Manchester said: "Sustainable regeneration is more than new homes, roads and schools. For communities to flourish then the individuals within them must also thrive. Investing in culture is vital to ensure east Manchester is a destination of choice to live, work and play. In the past year we've seen a great deal of creativity and I'm very proud of what the arts and culture team achieved. Their work has also added further value by helping improve people's health, educational and work prospects." 

The book is available for free by contacting Lela Cribbin or Jo Williams at New East Manchester on 0161 223 1155 or can be downloaded from New East Manchester 's website by clicking on www.neweastmanchester.com/press_office/publications/