Paralympian and Commonwealth Sprint Champion Zac Shaw has become the latest ambassador for Grimsby’s bid to become UK Town of Culture 2028, sharing his pride in the town and encouraging residents to get involved in the campaign.
Zac joined supporters at Blundell Park during the Grimsby Town FC home match on Saturday, where he spoke about what makes Grimsby special and why he is proud to call the town home.
The para-athlete, who has represented Great Britain on the international stage and won Commonwealth gold, said the strong sense of community in Grimsby is unlike anywhere else.
“There is a sense of belonging in our town and we have such a community feel,” said Zac. “I love the fact that you can come here and you know everybody and everyone is always so friendly. You don’t get that community feel anywhere else.”
Zac also highlighted the important role sport has played in his own journey from a young athlete in Grimsby to becoming a Paralympian and Commonwealth champion.
“Everyone is so proud of being here and sport is such a big part of the town,” he said. “On Saturday everyone comes to support Grimsby Town and they have a sense of belonging. Sport brings everyone together.
“I started at King George on the athletics track and became a Paralympian and Commonwealth champion. It is clear that sport is a really big part of the town.”
His appointment as a Town of Culture ambassador comes as the GY28 campaign continues to gather momentum, encouraging residents, businesses, community groups and organisations to help shape the town’s bid and celebrate everything that makes Grimsby unique.
A programme of engagement activities is already taking place across the town, giving people opportunities to share their stories, ideas and ambitions for the future.
Residents can continue to get involved at a range of upcoming events, including the Marmot Place Launch Event tomorrow (October 6) at Blundell Park and the major GY28 Public Event at Grimsby Minster on 9 October, where people can find out more about the bid and learn how they can support the campaign.
Creative community activities will include Chalk the Town sessions at Sidney Park and Grant Thorold Park on 10 October, followed by further sessions at Boulevard Park and People’s Park on 27 October.
Nature enthusiasts are invited to join a guided walk with James Elliott on 12 October, meeting at Grimsby Leisure Centre before exploring the River Freshney corridor and discussing the area’s natural heritage.
The conversation continues on 23 October with Talk of the Town at Freeman Street Market from 11am to 2pm, providing another opportunity for local people to share their views on what culture means to them and what they would like to see in Grimsby’s future.
The month concludes with a Play Day at St James’ Square on 30 October and a Freshney Place and Our Big Picture event on 31 October, helping to capture local voices and celebrate the community spirit at the heart of the Town of Culture bid.
Everyone is encouraged to attend the events, share their ideas and become part of the journey as Grimsby works towards securing the title of UK Town of Culture 2028.
There’s also a whole host of creative conversations and events going on over the coming days and weeks. To be part of the bid click here:
https://www.tickettailor.com/events/gy28creativesector
More ways to get involved:
Whether you share a story, send a message of support, attend an event or simply spread the word, every bit of support helps. You can have your say by taking part in our online survey here: https://tell-us.questionpro.eu/a/TakeSurvey?tt=LVI0o7f8cLXDoJ3Y0UO2/g%3D%3D
Visit our website GY28.co.uk to find out more, and become a GY28 ambassador and discover how you can get involved.
Instagram: @grimsby2028 https://www.instagram.com/grimsby2028/
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