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Celebrating 100 Years of Salford: Music, Smiles, and Resilience at Move & Groove 2026

edit Author: David Morrison & Nnenna Nelly Anaeke publish Published by: Connect Talent Editorial Team calendar_today Friday, 24th July 2026 schedule 6 min read
Celebrating 100 Years of Salford: Music, Smiles, and Resilience at Move & Groove 2026
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When over 150 neighbours, local families, volunteers, and community members gather under the open summer sky with shared intention, something truly special happens.

On Friday, 24th July 2026, the courtyard and halls outside Pendleton Gateway transformed into a lively community hub for Connect Talent CIO’s Move and Groove Summer Event. Marking the historic 100-year Centenary of Salford, the afternoon was all about friendship, positive wellbeing, culturally diverse food, digital empowerment, and shared pride in our city’s heritage.

From live musical serenades to celebrated civic milestones, free digital skill presentations, community stretching sessions, and inspiring personal triumphs, here is a visual story of how our city came together to show what really makes Salford strong.

A Buzzing Courtyard of Connection

By midday, the festival atmosphere was already in full swing. Bright blue Connect Talent T-shirts filled the grounds as staff, trustees, and volunteers welcomed arriving guests. All around the courtyard and under colourful gazebos, dozens of collaborating community partners set up engaging exhibition stalls to share resources, guidance, and fun conversation with residents of all ages.
A Buzzing Courtyard of Connection
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Residents mingling and exploring partner exhibition stalls under the outdoor gazebos at Pendleton Gateway.

Civic Support & City Leaders in Attendance

We were privileged to be joined by distinguished civic champions and community leaders, including the Ceremonial Mayor of Salford and local Members of Parliament. Their presence reaffirmed the city's commitment to grassroots voluntary action, digital inclusion, and supporting underserved communities.
Civic Support & City Leaders in Attendance
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Local MPs, civic leaders, and trustees gathered together for the opening addresses.

Live Saxophone & Soulful Serenades

Music is at the heartbeat of Move & Groove! Attendees were treated to a captivating live saxophone performance by talented local artist Oprah, filling the courtyard with uplifting jazz, gospel, and Afrobeat melodies that had guests dancing and singing along in the sunshine.
Live Saxophone & Soulful Serenades
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Live soulful saxophone melodies by Oprah bringing joyful rhythm to the afternoon.

Intergenerational Movement & Wellbeing with Salford City FC

Staying active is essential for mind and body. Dedicated health coaches from Salford City FC Foundation led an inclusive, chair-friendly community movement session. People of all ages—from toddlers to elders in their 80s—participated with infectious smiles.
Intergenerational Movement & Wellbeing with Salford City FC
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Salford City FC coaches leading gentle, energizing stretches for neighbours of all fitness levels.

Cutting the Salford 100-Year Centenary Cake

A memorable centerpiece of the day was the ceremonial slicing of our custom Salford Centenary Celebration Cake, commemorating 100 years of Salford’s municipal status. Civic leaders, trustees, and community elders gathered around the podium to cut the cake together amidst applause and shared memories.
Cutting the Salford 100-Year Centenary Cake
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The Ceremonial Mayor, trustees, and volunteers cutting the official Salford Centenary cake.

Sybil Onyemem Launches Debut Children’s Book at 78

A standout highlight of the festival was the book launch of our learner and community ambassador, Sybil Onyemem. Demonstrating that age is no barrier to creativity or digital literacy, Sybil utilized Connect Talent’s digital classes to write, format, and publish her debut illustrated children’s book. She took to the podium to read an excerpt, earning an emotional standing ovation from attendees.
Sybil Onyemem Launches Debut Children’s Book at 78
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Sybil Onyemem presenting her newly published children’s book at the podium to enthusiastic applause.
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Together, we make Salford Stronger!

Ready to build your confidence with our free Essential Digital Skills training or looking to get involved as a volunteer? Reach out to Connect Talent CIO online or stop by our community hub at Pendleton Gateway today.

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