5000 visitors flock to I am in Love exhibition

Strawberry Studios: I am in love exhibition has welcomed its 5000th visitor at Stockport Museum since it opened on 27th January.

Set to run for 12 months, the I am in Love exhibition has proved to be one of the most popular exhibitions ever held at Stockport Museum and has gained praise for the quality of objects on display and their interpretation.

This praise has been backed by an influx of visitors in the eight weeks since opening.

In a quirky twist of fate, visitor number 5000 was Donna Kelly – as name-checked in 10cc’s famous first single back in 1972! Donna was presented with a basket of fresh strawberries bought at Stockport’s Victorian covered Market, situated opposite the Museum.

5000th visitor to I am in Love – Donna Kelly

Manchester’s musical legacy is famous throughout the world. What is perhaps less well-known is the important role in which Stockport played.

Set up in 1967, Strawberry Studios became one of the first professional recording studios outside of London. With a technical opulence built on co-owners 10cc’s success, the Stockport-based studio provided a level of sophistication never seen before in the north. Legendary artists 10cc, Paul McCartney, Buzzcocks, Neil Sedaka and the Bay City Rollers all recorded at Strawberry Studios.

Legendary Factory Records producer Martin Hannett used Strawberry as his studio of choice and numerous iconic bands recorded their music within its walls. Joy Division, The Smiths, and The Stone Roses all visited Stockport creating what has since become the infamous Manchester sound.

Dr Peter Wadsworth, who helped to curate the exhibition, said:

“The Strawberry story is so interesting and varied that I am not surprised the exhibition is proving to be so popular. As well as telling a story about Stockport’s recent past, it also adds to our understanding of the wider Manchester and British music histories. I think the Museum curators and staff deserve great praise for making the exhibition such a success already”

Councillor Kate Butler, Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration said:

“5,000 visitors in eight weeks is a great accomplishment and everyone involved should be applauded for their hard work. I’m hoping that Stockport’s rich musical heritage and the part that Strawberry Studios played in it will inspire more people to get involved in making music.”

Strawberry Studios; I Am in Love commemorates these 50 years. Celebrating Stockport’s musical heritage via film, conversation, objects, art, and above all else, the music.

Stockport Museum is located at 30 Market Place, Stockport. SK1 1ES.  

Look for the ‘Stockport Story’ sign.

Opening Times

Tues – Sat 10-5

Sun 11-5

Closed Mon