The Romans are Coming Back to Kirkham!

May 19, 2023

A new programme inspired by the former Roman presence in Kirkham and Wesham and funded through a cooperative partnership will be bringing the past back to life and giving the community the opportunity to get involved in art and archaeology projects.

The programme has been made possible by the success of grant funding applications to the National Heritage Lottery Fund and Lancashire County Council’s Lancashire Culture and Sport Fund by Positive Placemakers CIC, who are working in partnership with Kirkham Cultural Consortium, a voluntary organisation set up to deliver Historic England’s High Street Action Zone Cultural Programme. The funding will result in the delivery of a fantastic programme of events and opportunities for the year ahead.

The programme, titled ‘The Romans are Back in Kirkham’, is inspired by the former Roman fort and will include three separate projects:

  • A community archaeology project, including digging test pits, an education programme for local schools, the development of a local archive, and the creation of an exhibition focusing on Roman Kirkham.
  • A fantastic high street mural that will provide opportunities for the community and young people to work with an artist to create their own art while also helping to co-create the final design.
  • A heritage inspired art and lantern festival, planned to celebrate Kirkham’s rich and diverse heritage and offering plentiful opportunities for schools, community groups and individuals to get involved, celebrate local talent, and create an amazing spectacle.

The programme also forms the final year of Historic England’s High Street HAZ Cultural Programme, planned to animate the high street, celebrate local heritage, and create an enduring legacy.

Annette York, Chairperson for KCC, said: “We are delighted with the news, and can’t wait to start delivering the programme. It will provide a great range of opportunities for individuals of all ages and abilities to get involved, celebrate and learn about local heritage.”

Kirkham Cultural Consortium invite individuals to come along on Saturday 20 May at the united Reformed Church, Poulton Street, between 1pm and 4pm to help celebrate this fantastic achievement and find out more about the project and opportunities available.

There will be a free clay workshop facilitated by artists Andy and Sharon Shaw, where all ages are welcome to join in and create a Roman figure to go on display in Kirkham as part of an installation. Please note that children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Don’t worry if you can’t attend the celebration on Saturday 20 May – there will be plenty more opportunities to learn about the programme. If you are interested in finding out more, volunteering or participating in any of the three projects, contact Helen Juste, Cultural Producer, by messaging 07568 547 471 or emailing helen.juste@positiveplacemakers.org.uk.

To keep up to date with the programme of opportunities, follow Kirkham Treasures on Facebook or Twitter.

Kirkham Futures is a 4-year programme of work to revitalise the town centre, representing the biggest investment in Kirkham in a generation, funded by the Historic England High Street Heritage Action Zone, the Government’s Future High Street Fund, and contributions from Lancashire County Council, Fylde Council, and Kirkham Town Council. This cultural programme has been funded by Historic England, Heritage Lottery Fund, Lancashire County Council’s Lancashire Culture & Sport Fund, and Fylde Borough Council.

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