Bury Council launches Town of Culture Opportunity Pass to thank key workers

Bury Council is launching a ‘Bury Town of Culture Opportunity Pass’ to thank key workers and volunteers for their efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic.

This new initiative, led by the council, coincides with the town’s current status of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority Town of Culture for 2021 and will include a wide range of offers and experiences which are exclusive for key workers to enjoy.

Opportunities range from discounts, free tickets, VIP experiences, previews, guided tours, exclusive competitions, skill development sessions, talent opportunities and taster sessions.

The scheme launches this week; however, opportunities and experiences will be added to the programme on a regular basis.

Venues taking part in the scheme include the borough’s museums, galleries, creative organisations and entertainment venues such as The Met – with the first opportunities including tickets for events including Happy! on the outdoor stage in Burrs in a month’s time.

Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for the cultural economy, said: “Culture and creativity is at the heart of the council’s Let’s Do It strategy and, as the first Greater Manchester Town of Culture, we’re putting together a series of exclusive opportunities and offers to thank people for their amazing response to the pandemic and contribution to life in the borough. This initiative celebrates the very best of Bury – both our people who make such a difference to the lives of others, and our cultural assets and institutions.”

To sign up for such opportunities go to www.bury.gov.uk/townofculture

Bury was chosen as the inaugural Town of Culture for 2020 by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority but sadly the majority of the programme had to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Officials have been working with cultural partners across the town to develop a new programme which kick started with the Happy Festival in May and in the coming weeks sees Burrs Live, Happy and the Prestwich Arts Festival.

ENDS

Press release issued: 20 August 2021.

Notes to editor:

Key workers include those working in:

• Health and social care
• Education and childcare
• Key public services such as those in the justice system, religious staff, charities, those responsible for the management of the deceased, journalists
• Local and national government
• Food and other necessary goods
• Public safety and national security
• Transport and border services
• Utilities, communication and financial services

For further media information contact Gini Wilde 07967019099 or townofculture@bury.gov.uk