Rochdale Culture Awards crowned its winners during a ceremony at Rochdale Town Hall, celebrating the individuals, creatives and organisations that make the borough shine.
Seven awards were handed out from 19 finalists at the event, staged during the closing weekend of Rochdale’s year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2025-26.
The creative of the year award was collected by Hayley Garner (aka AYLO), a multi-disciplinary artist and curator of last year’s popular Common Walls International Mural Festival.
Rochdale-born Hayley has brought bold, large-scale murals to Rochdale and Heywood.
Her work explores human connection, emotion and perspective, transforming public spaces through powerful visual storytelling.
Last month she mentored young artists as part of the FAB Youth Arts Festival.
Cultural event of the year was awarded to Darnhill Festival, organised by Cartwheel Arts alongside the Darnhill Festival Association and local partners.
Proudly community-led, this annual festival shines a light on creativity, resilience and humour, bringing families together through the arts.
Last year it attracted over 2,000 visitors and championed many more youth voices through its young producers’ programme.
The event was praised for its bold carnival energy and a strong sense of belonging, building pride and tackling isolation.
Skylight Circus Arts collected the health and wellbeing award and the community award.
They provide circus workshops for all in the region, regardless of age, background or ability as well as live shows at events and festivals. Through classes, school sessions and community work they create inclusive spaces where people can build confidence, connect with others and improve their wellbeing.
Young Creative of The Year went to Rochdale indie-rock band PoolEra.
Known for melodic guitar sound and energetic shows, the band formed whilst at school in Milnrow. When they’re not playing or recording, the band also mentor young producers, visit youth groups and have created opportunities for other emerging artists.
The Heritage Award was won by South Asian Heritage Rochdale.
In just two years, the community led platform has grown the South Asian Heritage Festival at Rochdale Town Hall into a large and joyful celebration of history, identity and lived experience, with music, dance, food, fashion and heritage from South Asia.
M6 Theatre Company, who produce and stage wonderfully imaginative shows for children and young people, won the cultural legacy award.
Special thanks were also given during the evening to Hebe Reilly, who recently stepped down as creative director and chief executive of Cartwheel Arts. She was praised for the enormous contribution she has made to the borough, including chairing Rochdale Borough Culture Network over the past four years.
