Todmorden Tomorrow Festival of the Future
The Todmorden Tomorrow Festival of the Future was a resounding success this July, hosted at the Todmorden Learning Centre & Community Hub (TLCCH) . The event brought together community organizations, environmental charities, and businesses with a strong focus on sustainability and green practices.
TLCCH, a community-run and owned institution since 2021, continues to thrive as a vibrant community space. The college offers a rapidly expanding range of services for local people and groups, including learning opportunities, sports facilities, offices, studios, and workshop spaces. TLCCH’s dedication to fostering community engagement and sustainable practices was evident throughout the festival.
Attendees were delighted by a diverse range of activities and exhibitions. Experts in composting, biodiversity, and sustainable farming showcased their knowledge, making Todmorden a hub of eco-friendly initiatives. Families enjoyed a variety of engaging and educational activities, from learning about climate change to riding the popular smoothie bicycle. Workshops on FRESK training provided valuable insights, while wholesome homemade food was available throughout the weekend.
Councillor Jane Williams reflected on the event’s success, noting:
“It was a fantastic event that clearly resonated with everyone involved. The enthusiasm from attendees and stall holders was palpable, with many expressing their appreciation for the valuable information and interactive activities available. It was particularly rewarding to see the strong connections being made between the exhibitors and visitors to the event, all sharing a commitment to sustainability.”
The festival culminated in a memorable banquet on Sunday, provided by Incredible Edible, an international organisation committed to building community growing projects, including workshops for all to tend to accessible community gardens, encouraging participants to cook and feast together.
“We are so lucky to have Incredible Edible, leading the way for people all over the world in growing food projects whilst growing communities together, which they are fantastic at,” remarked Deputy Mayor Councillor May Molteno.
Todmorden Town Council is committed to supporting our local climate gatekeepers and was encouraged by the valuable feedback received throughout the event. Many attendees demonstrated their dedication to our climate pledge by signing it. We were also thrilled by the strong support for the Council’s “My Tree Promise” scheme, which ran again this year, and received another amazing response.