‘A real showcase for our town’

THE unexpected bonus of such glorious weather through the summer provided an opportunity for continental-style outdoor living, well into the late evenings.

In particular, there has been an almost constant backdrop of live music, in and around the many town centre venues.

Artists and bands from all over the UK, and beyond, have been augmented by our own fantastic, local musicians.

The monthly Totally Locally market has also been attracting buskers and performers, contributing to a great atmosphere, and ‘town shop window,’ for visitors and tourists to the area.

There is enormous untapped potential to put Leek truly ‘on the map,’ as a festival and arts town. Not just music. Why not a walking festival, taking advantage of the beautiful surrounding countryside? Or maybe an ‘Arts and Crafts’ event, capitalising on the town’s strong links with William Morris?

Such developments would attract visitors in their droves, bringing in much needed revenue.

It could be linked to youth programmes, supporting Leek’s youngsters in developing, not only performance skills, but also business planning and marketing.

I was at the recent ‘Save our Hospital’ meeting and was saddened by the ruling Tory party town councillors’ mantra of ‘We have no money or power.’

Maybe not, but they do have influence and should have energy.

I call on them now to set up a steering group, led, not by political appointees, but local people with the skills, vision and energy to put Leek ‘on the map.’

If anyone is in any doubt they should pay a visit to one of the venues participating in October’s blues festival.

You will hear music of the highest standard, in the company of like minded enthusiasts. A real showcase for our town. Matt Swindlehurst Leek