Thank you to everyone who helped us celebrate the individuals, independent creatives, grassroots organisations and communities who make our borough shine on 27 March 2026.
The special evening at Rochdale Town Hall marked the closing celebration of Greater Manchester Town of Culture, recognising the creative successes that have defined 2025.
Thank you to everyone who nominated for the awards, and huge congratulations to all those nominated and shorlisted - we are pleased to share the winners in each category below.
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This is where we celebrate the imagination, talent and dedication that shape Rochdale Borough’s cultural life. Each category highlights the people, projects and organisations whose work inspires others and strengthens our community.
From well-known names to unsung heroes, we received a large number of applications across all categories.
Nominations are now closed and winners have been announced below.
Honours individuals or organisations whose steadfast dedication has shaped and preserved our cultural identity. It will champion those with a lasting creative influence, who mentor, inspire and keep our traditions alive. Recognising commitment, heritage and the power of creative stewardship.
Eligibility: Individuals / organisations / groups
Celebrating an outstanding creative individual whose work has made a major impact this year. Celebrating artistic excellence, fresh originality and strong influence within Rochdale’s creative community, inspiring audiences and earning admiration from peers and beyond.
Eligibility: Individuals - activity must have taken place between Jan - Dec 2025
Shining a light on emerging creatives under 25 whose fresh, inventive work shows real promise. It’s for those pushing boundaries, engaging communities, and growing in ambition. Recognising the spark of creativity set to shape Rochdale’s cultural future with energy, talent and vision.
Eligibility: Individuals aged 25 and under (on 19 Dec 2025), activities must have taken place between Jan - Dec 2025
Honours standout events in 2025 that bring people together to revel in culture, creativity or heritage. It will celebrate originality, inclusivity and impact - with memorable moments, strong community spirit and imaginative ideas that leave a lasting mark on Rochdale Borough’s cultural life.
Eligibility: Organisations / groups / individuals who that have organised events between Jan - Dec 2025
Celebrates individuals or initiatives using creativity and culture to boost mental, physical or emotional health. Recognises innovative approaches, meaningful community engagement and lasting impact, showing how the arts can inspire healthier, happier lives across Rochdale.
Eligibility: Organisations / groups / individuals, activities must have must have taken place between Jan - Dec 2025
The Heritage Award celebrates those who preserve and share Rochdale’s rich cultural legacy. From storytelling and traditional crafts to innovative heritage projects, this award honours individuals and groups who keep our history alive for future generations.
Eligibility: Organisations / groups / individuals, activities must have taken place between Jan - Dec 2025
Honours individuals, groups or small organisations (with a turnover of under £250,000 per year) whose cultural/creative work has made a real difference in the community. Celebrates grassroots spirit, dedication and the power of creativity to unite people, strengthen connections and enrich life across Rochdale.
Eligibility: Organisations / groups / individuals with an annual turnover of under 250k. Activities must have taken place between Jan - Dec 2025
The Culture Awards 2025 were brought to you by a partnership between Your Trust, Rochdale Development Agency, Rochdale Borough Council, Rochdale Town Hall, Culture Coop, and the Rochdale Borough Culture Network, which is chaired by Cartwheel Arts, as part of Rochdale’s Cultural Compact.
As championing local voices is at the heart of what we do, the awards panel will include community members from across the borough, ensuring they play a central role in the decision-making.
Click below to receive email updates on cultural events across Rochdale Borough, keeping you connected to its Greater Manchester Town of Culture activities.
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