New student art exhibition funded by Elsie's Story unveiled in Southport

Created by the impressively talented Year 7 students at Greenbank High School, ‘The Strength We Carry’ is now officially open.

Led by Hayley Coggins and the Shine programme with funding support from Elsie’s Story, this initiative was opened by Southport MP Patrick Hurley and is available to see until the end of April at The Atkinson on Lord Street, Southport.

Hayley said:

“We are incredibly proud of our students who have poured creativity, courage and heart into this very special project, The Strength We Carry, celebrating their Shine journey and International Women’s Day. Following a lot of hard work behind the scenes, it was incredible to be joined by our talented artists and Shine Ambassadors at Greenbank High School and their families to celebrate together.

“As part of their Shine journey, and to mark International Women’s Day 2026, students have created a unique collection of upcycled handbags to represent their inner strength and courage.

“We are all so proud of every one of them. Each creation holds a beautiful, uplifting message to inspire our local community and visitors at The Atkinson. This beautiful project would not have been possible without the wonderful support of Elsie’s Story, who have kindly funded this important work.

Credit: Andrew Brown / Delany-McGuffie/ The Strength We Carry

“We are wholeheartedly grateful that our fantastic young people can continue to be supported in the most creative and nurturing ways.

“Thank you for making this all possible Elsie’s Story, it means so much to all of us. We would like to express a huge thank you to Greenbank High School and families for supporting the Shine Programme. Also, a huge thank you to Southport MP Patrick Hurley and Stand Up For Southport for supporting and opening our special exhibition.

“Special thanks to Lizzie from Southport’s Journey for her wonderful support, to my lovely friend Jo McGuffie for helping in every way, to the superb team at The Atkinson for making Saturday extra special for all of us.

“Thank you to June The Florist, Booths, A Little Bit Printed, and Home Bargains for your very kind donations.

“They were certainly shining and so proud of their superb work. Many congratulations to you all!

“We are very excited for the next magical chapter of Shine, to create even more opportunities that support and celebrate the magnificent light of our shining stars!”

Southport MP Patrick Hurley said:

“I enjoyed a great Saturday morning at The Atkinson, celebrating the official opening of the Shine exhibition.

“A real credit to everyone involved, especially the girls at Greenbank High School, whose work now sits proudly on display and shows just how much talent exists when creativity is properly encouraged.

“Particular recognition to Hayley Coggins for the work behind the programme and the care taken to bring it all together, creating something that gives young people both confidence and visibility.

“A lovely reminder that some of the strongest things happening in Southport are often being built quietly, by people who simply keep showing up and making things happen.”

Find out more about Elsie’s Story here.

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