Firstly, to everyone who recently took part in the public consultation about Investment Plans for Accrington Town Centre, thank you. Over 1,000 people responded and overwhelmingly support the need for regeneration. Soon we will be submitting a bid for the Government’s levelling up fund and hope to secure investment needed to kick start a transformation, which will be guided by the information from our consultation.

Secondly, over the last two weeks we have again seen the great strength of our community. The devastating events in Ukraine have led to hundreds of people here in Hyndburn asking what they can do to help.

Last week a collection point for donations was opened at Accrington Market Hall and in just 24 hours the room was filled with sleeping bags, medical supplies, nappies and essentials for families that are fleeing the war. With support from local organisations these supplies will be delivered to the frontline and help those in urgent need. In addition to this hundreds of messages from the people in our borough have been compiled. These messages will be digitally sent to show our solidarity.

For the foreseeable future the Mercer Memorial clock tower in Great Harwood will be lit blue and yellow every evening and a Ukrainian flag flown outside our Town Hall. This symbols our support for Ukraine during this horrific attack from Russia. Thoughts are with the people fighting, the families fleeing and also with everyone here in Hyndburn who have family or friends in Ukraine, or may be feeling worried about the events unfolding.

I would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that the Hyndburn Hub is still here for support if you need it and if you are able to give your support to others, the volunteer hub is very much active. The volunteer hub are always looking for people to help them and have a wide range of opportunities open with everything from befriending services to administrative support for local charities. If you can give your time or want to know more you can contact the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley CVS online or by phone on 01254 888614.