OLDHAM Coliseum is set to receive a share of an £8.6 million investment in arts across Greater Manchester.

It is one of 35 theatres, museums, festivals, and cultural centres from all ten boroughs to be given a grant from the Greater Manchester Culture Fund.

This year's investment is up almost a quarter from the £7 million allocated in 2018, with People's History Museum also being given some cash.

Susan Wildman, interim chief executive at Oldham Coliseum, said: “We are delighted to be one of the successful applicants to the Greater Manchester Culture Fund.

"This is of huge importance to the Coliseum and we’d like offer our sincere thanks to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, not just for its support of our organisation but for its ongoing commitment to culture across the city region.

"We look forward to working with GMCA and with other arts and culture providers to delivering on our shared aims.”

The cultural and educational charity works with over 150,000 people per year, and will received money from the fund created by GMCA.

This fund was created to support organisations that provide cultural experiences and opportunities throughout the borough.

There were 103 applications, with this phase of the grant programme continuing until 2022.

Greater Manchester’s night-time economy adviser Sacha Lord welcomed the investment.

He said: “Greater Manchester’s international reputation as a cultural hotspot continues to grow, people know us around the world for our music, our art, our literature and our history and this investment recognises the importance of culture and creativity to that reputation.

“It also shows just how much Greater Manchester values the contribution theatres, music venues, clubs and festivals make to the vibrancy of our town and city centres and high streets, especially during the night-time.

"This increased investment directly supports delivery of my Night-Time Economy Blueprint and, at a challenging time for local government, demonstrates real foresight, leadership and commitment to keeping our town and city centres thriving and maintaining and growing our international reputation."