A bumper programme of post-lockdown summer fun activities for children and young people of all ages kicks off this week at venues across the city.
After a spring and early summer like no other, which has seen thousands of children and families throughout Manchester confined to their houses, the council has worked with local partners on putting together a packed programme of things to do now that schools are closed and home-schooling's out - with the vast majority free of charge.
From discovering dinosaurs and fairies in the city's parks, to flexing your artistic skills with creative care kits, visiting the wonders of Ancient Egypt without leaving the city, brushing up your footballing and bike-riding skills, or just getting some much-needed fresh air and exercise on a Manchester Green Trail walking route, there's something for all ages to get stuck into and enjoy.
Whilst the city's All Sorts To Do activity programme has been a staple now of every school holiday for some time, it was quickly realised that this summer the challenges around the need for social distancing, along with the impact lockdown has had on children and young people, would mean the planned programme of activity in itself wouldn't be enough to meet likely demand or strict safety requirements.
The council has therefore worked closely with partners in the youth and play sector and schools over the last few weeks, as well as cultural organisations, to boost the number of activities that will be available across the city in parks, youth clubs, libraries, museums, and on some school sites. The new ramped-up programme will also include some targeted sessions aimed at groups of young people who might need additional support.
Councillor Luthfur Rahman, Executive Member for Culture, Leisure, Skills, and Youth, Manchester City Council, said: "Staying inside all this time and away from others has really helped keep everyone safe, and we want to thank young people for the important part they played in this.
"However we know how tough it's been in lockdown these last few months for them and how much they've missed seeing their friends and getting out and about.
"Now that infection rates have slowed and the lockdown is easing we've been working with partners across the city to come up with a programme of safe stuff for them to do over the next few weeks to get them moving and active again, and most importantly of all, to help them have some fun.
"There's something for children and young people of all ages, most of it free, and all of it complying with current rules around social distancing. So take a look, get out there, and get involved!"
To find out what's happening across the city and in your area, visit: www.manchester.gov.uk/