The Silk Museum's new exhibition inspired by Macclesfield's historic FA Cup run is now open.

Community FC! officially launched at the museum on Park Lane on Thursday, June 18, with contributors and supporters invited to a special preview evening.

Running until September 5, the exhibition serves as an exploration of Macclesfield's enduring love for football, moving beyond the professional game to celebrate the thriving grassroots activity in town's parks, gardens, and schools.

Natalie Lane, education coordinator at the Silk Museum, said: "Earlier in the year, we ran a call out for contributions from the community to share their photos and stories of what football means to them.

"We took inspiration from Macclesfield's recent FA Cup success and were keen to make the most of the World Cup's 'football fever', but with a real focus on grassroots, community activity. "

Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Community FC! exhibition provides a unique look at local football life, featuring a mix of archive photography from the museum's own collection, personal photos submitted by the people of Macclesfield, and new photography by Dan Fone.

Curator and photographer Dan said: "Most photographs here have been submitted by local people who either play or help make it all happen.

"The submission form asked one question, 'What does football mean to you?'

"The consistency of the answers was striking and summed up in two words, teamwork and friendships."

Natalie added: "From jumpers for goalposts and well-earned trophies to the realities of matchday mud, the exhibition invites visitors to come along and see if they can spot a familiar face."

The opening event saw an invited guest list of exhibition contributors, community members, and local residents, welcomed by the Silk Museum's chair Simon Spurrell.

Paul Smith, the coach of a local under 15's boys team also spoke of how playing football teaches so much, from the power of teamwork, coping with defeat, and managing emotions.

And, Ruth Stallman delighted the audience with her stories about how her daughter Oliva is football mad!

Guests enjoyed drinks and half-time oranges, along with specially made cakes from Cherry Blossom Bakery.

They were also treated to a display of objects relating to the World Cup from the National Football Museum.

Community FC! will remain on display in the Silk Museum's Community Gallery until September 5, with museum open 10am to 4pm, Wednesday through Saturday.

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