Manchester charity looking for talented people and groups to take part in new virtual festival

A Manchester charity is on the lookout for talented people and groups to take part in a new virtual festival happening later this month.

The #OurTrafford festival is being organised by mental health charity, MancSpirit, and organisers want people to get involved in showcasing the diverse culture that exists throughout Trafford.

So they’re encouraging people, community groups, organisations and businesses to join in.  

“This is an excellent opportunity for everyone across the borough to share their talents and take part in an inspirational and positive week of online activity,” said Paul Ludden, co-founder of MancSpirit and a local Sale resident.

“Whether that is exploring the festival throughout the week or by sending in some of your poetry, art, music or anything fun and ‘creative’.”

The festival, supported by the GMCA Culture fund, is gathering pace, and there is a great line up coming together featuring the world premiere of Love Bugged, a short film written by poet and writer, David Viney, and a new song written especially for the festival by local singer/songwriter/musician, Scott Lloyd.

The festival will be run online through a series of social media streams, YouTube channel and podcasts – offering a number of options for people to access what’s on offer, plus opportunities to join in the fun by using the #OurTrafford hashtag throughout the week to share pictures, stories and video.

“I chose Trafford as a place to make my home and raise my three children, and I see all the time the incredible talent and community spirit that exists in the borough,” says Paul.

“I wanted to give that talent, dedication and passion a platform through developing this festival.”

Damian Carr, co-founder of MancSprit, said: “MancSpirit is Greater Manchester’s mental wellbeing charity, and we know people will find something entertaining, inspiring and encouraging with what’s on offer.

“Seeing and hearing what’s already coming through has put a huge smile on my face, and that’s certainly something we could all do with at the moment.”

Trafford Housing Trust is supporting the festival, and business partnership manager Sarah Millican said: “MancSpirit has been an inspiration throughout what has been a challenging last six months, bringing much needed creativity and enjoyment to the residents of Trafford, and in particular some of Trafford Housing Trust’s customers. 

“We’re delighted to support the festival, and we will be encouraging our customers and colleagues to get involved.”

Paul and Damian insist that the festival is the beginning of a journey, and they are both determined that the #OurTrafford festival is just the start of an exciting programme of legacy projects that will benefit the people of Trafford for years to come.

They are already working an idea for a #CaringForOurCarers programme.

The virtual #OurTrafford festival takes place from 23rd to 30th October, and entrants can apply by sending their submissions to [email protected].