Over the last two-weeks Hyndburn has paused and reflected after the sad loss of our longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. It has been a huge honour to be part of local services including wreath laying and leading the Proclamation of King Charles III, in addition to representing Hyndburn at Lancashire events. I also had the honour of attending the Thanksgiving service at Blackburn Cathedral, which was a wonderful and very moving service.
The floral tributes laid throughout the borough and the books of condolence which are filled show how our community has come together to pay their respects. If anyone did not get chance to sign the book in person there is an online version available on the Royal website too for people to leave messages. We now look to the future, and I am sure everyone will join me in wishing HM King Charles III a long and happy reign. We will be looking forward to marking the coronation celebrations throughout the borough when the time comes and being part of the historical occasion to come.
As the weather has changed and we now approach winter I am urging people to look after each other and if you need any support, please let others know. In Hyndburn no one has to struggle alone, we have some fantastic community organisations available and also the Hyndburn Hub, 01254 388 111.
One way we can protect ourselves and others this winter is by getting our Autumn booster covid-19 vaccination if we are eligible. The fantastic team at the Acorn Centre have started this booster roll out and we are also very pleased to be welcoming the vaccine bus to Accrington Town Square. The hop-on vaccine bus will be in Accrington every Monday from the 26th September until 31st October. Full information about eligibility and timings can be found on Hyndburn Council’s website. I would like to offer thanks to everyone who is involved in these continued efforts to keep us safe two and a half years since the start of the pandemic, our NHS services are wonderful and by saying yes to the vaccination we are helping to support them and relieve extra pressures that winter may bring.