The Rotary Club of Hebden Bridge is proud to announce a grant of £1,690 from the Brian Boocock Bequest to support Northlight Art Studio. This donation continues Brian's legacy of supporting local arts and community initiatives, reflecting his lifelong commitment to creativity and craftsmanship in our beloved Calder Valley.

Brian Boocock: Artist, Entrepreneur, and Community Pillar

Brian Boocock was not only a lifelong honorary member of our Rotary Club and a talented local artist but also a successful entrepreneur. He was the founder of Signature Carpets, a premier designer and manufacturer of luxury hand-made carpets and rugs based locally. Brian's commitment to individual design and excellence in craftsmanship was evident in every piece, as each carpet or rug was specially crafted to work perfectly with the client's interior design.  Brian's artistic talents extended beyond his business:

• He designed the impressive Hebden Bridge Millennium Clock on St George's Bridge

• He spent over 40 years painting the mills and hills surrounding Hebden Bridge, capturing the changing landscape and industrial heritage

• His "Mills and Hills" collection of paintings, donated to the Rotary Club, raised over £5,000 for the Rotary Trust, to be spent on art-related projects

Impact of the Grant

The £1,690 grant to Northlight Art Studios will have a significant impact on our local community:

• Providing half-price concessionary rate places for weekly art classes

• Offering free spots for individuals with special needs or learning difficulties

This funding will benefit individuals on benefits or low incomes, allowing them to explore their creativity and engage with the arts in ways previously inaccessible due to financial constraints.

Continuing Brian's Legacy

By supporting this initiative, we are:

• Enhancing community well-being through creative expression

• Fostering a more inclusive and diverse local arts scene

• Honouring Brian Boocock's legacy of supporting local arts and craftsmanship

This grant aligns perfectly with Brian's lifelong commitment to creativity, quality, and community support. We're proud to continue his legacy by supporting initiatives that reflect his love for the Calder Valley, his dedication to the arts, and his entrepreneurial spirit that contributed so much to Hebden Bridge's unique character.

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