Pictures: Torquay harbourside comes alive as art unites community

Professional images: MiraclePR/miraclepr.com

Torquay’s harbourside was awash with brightly coloured festival flags and the sounds of happy children over the Easter bank holiday as part of a programme of activities designed to connect residents with the recently regenerated area.

Families fully embraced the welcome free Easter entertainment, which included games, music, art activities and street performers across Sunday, April 20 and Monday, April 21.

The new Agatha Christie statue, which was unveiled on Saturday, April 12, was a fitting addition to the celebrations, providing a popular photo opportunity amidst the stalls and art displays that had been set up on the waterfront.

Commissioned by Torbay Council and delivered by Tonic Creatives — a local team dedicated to bringing people together through arts, heritage, and cultural experiences — the activities aimed to build a stronger connection between the community and the newly enhanced environment.

Cllr Chris Lewis, deputy leader and cabinet member for place development and economic growth at Torbay Council, said: “Using Town Deal funding we have successfully created a high-quality and modern space against the backdrop of the stunning inner harbour.

“We’ve introduced more seating, feature lighting, cycle racks and planted areas. Importantly, the space has been designed to recognise and celebrate the historical qualities of the area.”

A definite seaside theme ran through the festivities, with games including children throwing sandbags through a purple smiling octopus, an urban chalk art display of blue squids, and stilt-walking performers interacting with the public while dressed as a squid and an octopus.

Children also took part in painting activities at easels, facing out across the harbour.

Live music added to the festive atmosphere, with Weapons of Sound performing on Sunday and Crooked Tempo Samba Band on Monday.

One resident said: “It was a lovely atmosphere at the harbour today. It was great to see the bay full of visitors and locals enjoying the activities.”

The team at Tonic Creatives say that “at the heart of our organisation, we are committed to working with local and regional artists and arts practitioners to provide innovative events and opportunities”.