June saw the launch of ‘MY LEEDS Summer’ a signature project from LEEDS 2023 and The Year of Culture.

Working with their wards, 33 Neighbourhood Hosts have been busy shaping celebratory events to shine a light on the amazing communities within Leeds, giving people the opportunity to celebrate creativity in their neighbourhood.

Each ward was given a grant to help create their event and the one thing they all have in common is that they will all be as unique as the communities they celebrate.

Nicola Browne, Adel & Wharfedale Neighbourhood Host said: “Our ward event is in partnership with the Ralph Thoresby Festival and is to be held on Saturday 15th July, from 11.30am – 4pm. We’ve had a fabulous response to the grant call out and requests to participate and we’re delighted that each area of the ward is represented.

“So, what’s on? In addition to the fabulous music and performances from Ralph Thoresby, here’s a taste of what’s to come: “Love Pop Choir, The Hummingbirds 1940’s band, Dance Union, DJ Rajan, Sebastian Magician, Hip Hop Phil, and sensory story telling from Adventure Babies. Community members will run creative workshops from crafting jewellery to portrait drawing, graffiti demos, and a stitch a thon. They’ll be art displays, interactive sports sessions ( for all ages & mobility), competitions, stalls as well as inflatables, climbing wall, face painting, food and more!

“Leeds United signed shirts, shop and restaurant vouchers are just some of the items to be auctioned off and a surprise will be unveiled -‘ The Gift’, another LEEDS 2023 project working with London artist Keith Khan. “All schools in the area are working with local artist, Dianne Riding to create murals based on their interpretation of MY LEEDS. These will be showcased at the festival and installed in Holt Park’s shopping concourse. We’ve some talented budding artists in the making.

“Dianne Riding has also produced a stunning glass-art piece for the My LEEDS Summer celebrations which will be installed in Golden Acre Park on the 23rd July and unveiled by the Lord Mayor. You can learn about its creation on the 15th July.

“The event is for all ages. Whether you participate or just sit back and soak in the entertainment, we’d love to see you. The venue has accessible parking, is wheelchair and service dog friendly and has baby changing facilities.”

Billy Flynn, Ward Councillor for Adel & Wharfedale said “I would like to congratulate Nicola, our ward host, and Dianne for the huge amount of work they have done to deliver these two brilliant projects from a standing start. Anyone who has tried to hold the attention of a child for even a few minutes will know how difficult it can be. To hold the attention of hundreds over several months to deliver the mural is nothing short of incredible. The artwork will be a magnificent and lasting legacy of the ward’s contribution to the Year of Culture. I am delighted to have helped Nicola and Dianne.”

Book your ticket now via the Ralph Thoresby website at https://www.ralphthoresby.co.uk/event-tickets/

500 free tickets are available.

For details on the other My LEEDS Summer events taking place over the summer, visit www.leeds2023.co.uk.