The doors to Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester may be temporarily closed but that doesn’t mean the creative fun has to end.

As the leading family attraction prepared to ‘lock down’ with the rest of the nation this month, we were pleased to get to work adapting the attraction’s communications strategy, with a focus on inspiring and delighting LEGO fans across the region.

#LDCBuildAtHome, a series of virtual build workshops imagined by The Strong Agency and led by Master Model Builder James Windle, has done just that, with thousands of families tuning in from the comfort of their home to participate in the builds.

The campaign, devised and delivered in just seven days, has been such a success its been confirmed to run twice a week throughout April, with LEGO fans young and old invited to join in every Tuesday and Thursday at 3pm.  Those interested in joining in the fun, should simply visit the attraction’s Facebook page on the outlined dates and times.

Activity has driven incredible media coverage too, with James positioned alongside internet sensation Joe Wicks!  To follow is just a handful of the many highlights:  Evening Standard   /  Shortlist   /  Manchester Evening News   /   Manchester’s Finest   /   About Manchester   / Liverpool Echo   /   Manchester Wire 

In a week that’s been dominated by hard news, we’ve been proud to share a little good, with news that The Strong Agency has been appointed by Merlin Entertainments.

The retainer contract sees Strong work with the leading business to promote it’s two incredible Manchester attractions – SEA LIFE Manchester and Legoland Discovery Centre Manchester.

Work is already underway with plans for Sea Life Manchester’s exciting new feature, Snorkel with Sharks, in development.  The agency will also promote the attractions’ annual programme of events.

Speaking on the appointment, Jenn McDonough, General Manager Manchester Cluster, Merlin Entertainments, said: “We’ve worked with a number of partners over the years, but none have grasped the business quite in the way that Jules, and now The Strong Agency, does.  She has a proven track record for delivering creative and strategic campaigns that meet our business objectives, and we’re delighted to work together.  We know we’re in good hands.”

The appointment is a significant win for the agency and plays to our key strengths.   Thanks to PR Week, Prolific North & Response Source for covering the news.

Strong client, El Gato Negro, celebrated this week as the leading tapas restaurant picked up two accolades at the prestigious Oliver Awards.

Open little more than four months, it’s a notable achievement for the Leeds restaurant, with El Gato Negro awarded Best World Restaurant and Best Overall Restaurant.   It was also highly commended in the Best Newcomer category.

Speaking on the night, Chef Patron & Creative Director, Simon Shaw, said: “It’s great news, we’re really chuffed.  To be awarded not just one but two accolades after such a short period of trading is incredible.

“It’s a privilege and humbling to be recognised by your guests and industry peers, and a brilliant achievement for the team.”

The Oliver Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of the best in the business in Leeds’ flourishing food and drink scene, and saw 16 accolades presented on the night.

We’re incredibly proud to work with the team and to have the opportunity to document and promote El Gato Negro’s continued growth and success.

(Images credits: Allan McKenzie/YPN)