Getting to Know, an ambitious people-led artwork

A unique audio trail through Ancoats, one of Manchesters most historic areas. From the marina to local parks, hear from locals across the area.

Miniature statues of current local legends will be placed across Ancoats this August. The trail will take you over cobbled streets, to historical buildings and through parts of Ancoats you’ve maybe never seen before.

Since December 2023 we have been working with community groups, collecting stories and anecdotes of Ancoats old and new. The youngest person we have interviewed was six years old and the oldest in their late 80s. This project has provided opportunities for several community groups to link up with each other, connect and share opportunities. 

We have now interviewed over 14 residents who have shared stories of Ancoats from the 1950s - 2024. These stories are being archived through our project. Getting to know Ancoats paints a true and authentic picture of t he people of Ancoats, what a pleasure it has been to get to know them.

Our incredible statues today include Bob Ames, Rona Egan, Shar Sangster, Zee Otutu, Wren, Jean and Chaddy and Natasha Grant.