Todmorden News

Local Museum And Gallery Visitor Numbers Soar

Calderdale’s museums and galleries are seeing record number of visitors this year. Visits to all Calderdale Council’s museums and galleries soared by 54 per cent during April and May 2009, compared to the same period last year.

A busy programme of events, exhibitions and activities has captured the interest of people of all ages. And with entry free to most sites, museums and galleries offer a great way to enjoy days out close to home during the ‘credit crunch’.

There are lots more events scheduled throughout the summer – from open air theatre to arty picnics, craft activities to talks and lectures. And plenty of activities are scheduled for the summer holidays to help keep the kids amused, rain or shine.

Bankfield Museum, the Piece Hall Art Gallery & Visitor Centre, Smith Art Gallery in Brighouse, Shibden Park and Heptonstall Museum are all free. Shibden Hall has a modest admission charge, but set in the beautiful grounds of the refurbished park, it really does have something for all the family.

So why not pick up a brochure, or visit www.calderdale.gov.uk and take time out to visit one of your five museums and art galleries very soon.

Councillor Ian Cooper, CMBC Community Services portfolio holder, said:

“Calderdale ’s museums and galleries offer fantastic free and great-value days out for families and people of all ages and interests. With pressure on their family budget people are looking closer to home for their fun and entertainment, so museums and galleries could be set for a bumper summer in 2009!”