February has been a month to remember, both in terms of notable events and as a time of reflection.

I was privileged to plant a new oak tree in Accrington’s Oak Hill Park as part of several ceremonies to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Marking 70 years since Her Majesty first took to the throne, further tree plantings also took place in Mercer Park and Rhyddings Park.

To place such symbols of strength, stability and sustainability in our Green Flag Award winning outdoor spaces was a fitting tribute.

The Queen’s reign has been a constant throughout my lifetime, as with many Hyndburn residents, during several years of change.

And for lots of us, her reassuring demeanour at times of difficulty or uncertainty has been heartening and at times inspiring.

That’s why I was also proud to join in raising a glass in Her Majesty’s name at the Town Hall and add my signature to her official congratulations card.

Remembering the Accrington Pals

The Accrington Pals Memorial Service was a humbling occasion, marking 107 years since those brave young people left their hometowns for the war.

Eventually arriving at the trenches of the Somme, most of them never came back and their sacrifice should never be forgotten.

My consort and I were honoured to attend a beautiful service in remembrance of the battalion and in respect to their families.

The memorial took place at St. John’s with St. Augustine’s Parish Church in Accrington on Sunday 20 February.

The sad but uplifting experience was an important tribute to the memory of the 11th (Service) Battalion of the East Lancashire Regiment – the Accrington Pals.

Valentines charity raffle

On Saturday 12 February I was proud to attend an event in aid of my chosen charities at the Peel Park Hotel in Accrington.

It was humbling to see how many local businesses and individuals had donated generously to the afternoon’s raffle.

With a Valentine’s Day theme, gifts included chocolates, flowers, jewellery and many more items.

These were grouped into larger prize bundles to make tickets even more enticing to guests on the day.

The event was a success, earning more than £750 for worthy causes including Rosemere Cancer Foundation, Community Solutions North West, Pioneer Swimming Club and the RNLI.