Ellesmere Port has reason to celebrate. It is a place rich with stories, woven through with people who know the Port as home. 2014 is a year to look back and give thanks for the foundations of community, often established through hard work and sacrifice.
As the country prepared for war in 1914, new industries were being established along the water front and railway track. The footballer, Joe Mercer, was born in Ellesmere Port. The shops along the central thoroughfare of Whitby Road were just a couple of years old in 1914, when the street was described as ‘flourishing and cheerful‘. 1914 was also the year when Trinity Methodist Church opened in the town centre.
One hundred years later, after much fundamental change in Ellesmere Port, the re- configuration of Trinity as church in the community has been symbolic of a town-wide transformation. A rich heritage has been shared by the people, encompassing both the prosperity of industrial growth and the lean years of structural and economical change.
As 2014 unfolds, a unique opportunity has been created to draw on the capacity of art to change public perceptions and develop community with a positive mindset which looks
hopefully to the future.
Between 6th March – 27th April 2014, ‘Along the Way’ will exhibit The Methodist Collection of Modern Art at four venues in the town to mark Trinity’s centenary on Whitby Road. ‘Along the Way’ has been the catalyst for establishing a Fringe Festival which incorporates art, music, community tapestry, drama, creative workshops and a schools programme. The Port Arts Festival 2014, will reflect themes of reconciliation, peace and forgiveness.
You are invited to take part, to come and see, to stop and chat, to listen and learn. Its time to express what it means to be part of this community and to celebrate being the people of ‘Our Place’.
The Port Arts Festival 2014 