Salford Host Stoke-on-Trent Civic Reception Ahead of Centenary

As Salford gets set to celebrate the city’s centenary in 2026, representatives from the City of Stoke-on-Trent were invited to Salford for a special Civic Reception and a commemorative ‘Centenary Baton’ hand over. The visit follows the ‘Potteries’ city celebration of its own centenary year in 2025.

2026 marks one hundred years since Salford was officially granted city status by a Royal Charter by King George V on 21 April 1926. Exciting plans are underway for an ambitious programme of cultural, civic and community-led events across the city to celebrate Salford’s centenary year. 

Plans will be focused on exploring the city’s past, celebrating its present, and imagining its future, rooted in neighbourhoods and led by communities, reflecting the people and places that make Salford unique.

There will be a specially commissioned cultural programme, bringing Salford’s stories to life through art, performance, and community collaboration. Led by creative producers Walk the Plank and From the Other, the programme will be developed in partnership with residents and organisations. 

A civic programme will celebrate Salford’s identity, history and people through inclusive events and activities.

The Communities strand will support local groups, organisations, and residents to host their own events from park anniversaries and street parties to community-led projects.

The Civic Reception saw, The Ceremonial Mayor of Salford, Councillor Heather Fletcher, along with Deputy Ceremonial Mayor, Councillor Robin Garrido, Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett and Salford City Council Chief Executive, Stephen Young welcome The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Steve Watkins and their centenary mascot Kelvin the Kiln.

As part of the event, a new centenary flag, featuring the Salford 100 branding was raised for the first time outside Salford Civic Centre ahead of the year-long celebrations. 

Prior to their visit to Salford, the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Kelvin the Kiln had visited Portsmouth, as the city will also be celebrating its Centenary in 2026, alongside Salford. 

The baton of friendship was extended through the shared experience of Centenary and via links made between the two cities via the Key Cities partnership. 

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett said:

“As we look ahead to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Salford next year, this visit from colleagues in Stoke-on-Trent to our city has been an important step in our planning ahead of our centenary year. 

“2026 is going to be a hugely significant moment in the city’s history. The council has already agreed significant funding to develop a special programme of events and activities, with more details to come in the new year. We’re now committed, alongside our city partners to making it a year to remember for all our residents.

“I’d urge everyone to check out our Salford 100 website, sign up to our e-newsletter and follow us on social media to make sure you’re in the know when further event details are confirmed. Then together, we need to get ready to celebrate as only Salford knows how.”

Salford Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Heather Fletcher added:

“It’s a really exciting time as we get ready for 2026 and the visit from Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Kelvin the Kiln has really got us in the centenary spirit for next year! 

“It’s been a pleasure to welcome them to Salford and great they have helped us launch our new Centenary flag. It’s also been extremely useful to share thoughts and ideas on the importance of and how to celebrate our Centenary year.”

The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent, Councillor Steve Watkins, said:

“Passing the baton to Salford is another proud moment for our city. We were made very welcome and it was a pleasure to visit places that mean so much to Salford’s identity, from world-class cultural venues to the Coronation Street cobbles known across the country. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing how Salford celebrates its Centenary next year. I know it will be an amazing year for them. As a fellow city shaped by industry, creativity and strong communities, Salford is well placed to mark its Centenary in a way that reflects both its history and its future.”

In addition to visiting Salford Civic Centre, The Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent and Kelvin the Kiln also visited other famous Salford landmarks, including MediaCityUK, Lowry and Salford Lads Club. 

More information about Salford’s centenary is available via www.salford100.org.uk and residents, communities and businesses who would like to add their stories and suggestions to the city’s celebrations can email salford100@salford.gov.uk.