Stockport town centre was buzzing on Sunday (2 July) as the Town of Culture programme kicked off with 'Stockport Moves'.

The event featured a one mile race, along with a whole host of other sports activities in collaboration with Stockport County FC, Boost, Seashell, Life Leisure and Age UK. 

The race saw selected club runners from across Greater Manchester smash the mile course. Emilia Platt from East Cheshire & Tameside Harriers crossed the line in five minutes 32 seconds and Michael Manning from Oldham & Royton Harriers finishing in four minutes and 49 seconds to take the Men's and Women's top spots and trophies.

Afterwards, Stockport residents themselves also tried their hand at the mile, with 350 people crossing the finish line and gaining their well-deserved medal. 

An eight-week programme of walking and general fitness in the lead up to the event ensured everyone had the opportunity to be part of the Stockport Mile on the day and not just seasoned runners.

Meanwhile, St Peter's square hosted boxing taster sessions and Muay Thai demonstrations from the Master Sken Academy, multi-games from Life Leisure, hockey skills from Bramhall Hockey Club, inclusive tennis from LUSU Sports and jaw dropping bike and scooter displays from the Extreme Mountain Bike show.

Cllr Frankie Singleton - cabinet member for communities, culture and sport - also took part in the fun, donning some goalkeeper gloves and blocking shots from participants in the Stockport County speed cage.

The councillor said of the event: "The event was such a huge success because people of all abilities and ages came together as a community to encourage and support each other. 

"Getting Stockport moving together is hugely important for physical and mental health and the event showcased that activity and movement is joyous and open to everyone."

The Town of Culture programme will continue throughout the year, with Stockport Makes - a public art show - already scheduled for 30 July.