NATIONALLY renowned arts in libraries scheme Cultural Hubs has launched its latest programme of exciting events.

This includes Creative Alternatives craft sessions, which is a unique way of improving adults’ wellbeing that is endorsed by GPs and other health professionals.

The sessions are already underway, but there’s plenty of time to get involved.

Another option is the popular heritage project St Helens Through the Lens which will return in February, with artist Debbie Adele Cooper once again at the helm.

Debbie has explored a collection of more than 3,000 glass plate negative photographs in St Helens Local History and Archives – which gives a snapshot of local life in the 1950s.

She then creates unique artwork inspired by photography, light, sound and history.

Making his third appearance after two successful sell-out performances in St Helens libraries, award-winning performer Gerard Logan will present his new solo-adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Rape of Lucrece. This brilliant but brutal narrative poem, adapted for mature audiences, sheds light on the awful crime of rape and its impact.

Younger audiences can also enjoy a visit from the library lion who ill be roaring his way into various libraries, in an adaptation of the New York Times’ best-selling children’s book by Michelle Knudsen, presented by Untied Artists.

This family friendly event – a beautiful story with songs, laughter and lots of joining in – takes place in February half-term.

Cllr Sue Murphy, St Helens Council’s cabinet member for leisure services and libraries, said: “With 2018 being the 150th anniversary of the borough, there’ll be plenty of cultural events happening across St Helens, and our libraries are no exception.

“The new programme has been curated to offer something for everyone, with a mixture of small theatre productions, music and comedy performances, arts exhibitions, and creative craft events to promote wellbeing – all adapted in imaginative ways for unique library spaces across St Helens.”

For more information visit issuu.com/CulturalHubs/docs/cultural_hubs_10_brochure.