The summer season has officially begun in Accrington, even if the weather hasn't quite caught up yet, with the brilliant Accrington food and drink festival held at the start of the month. Amazing Accrington once again delivered a packed day of entertainment, including chef cooking sessions with the team from the Dunkenhalgh, dance routines by Burnley College, a chilli tasting competition, and much more.
D-Day Commemorations and Community Spirit
As we marked 82 years since the D-Day landings, this year's festival featured a solemn parade and service led by a lone piper from Accrington Pipe Band, accompanied by a World War II motorbike. The newly appointed Mayor of Hyndburn, Councillor Noordad Aziz, laid a wreath. The reenactment helps us remember the bravery of those who secured the freedoms we enjoy today. Many children enjoyed the opportunity to sit inside the cockpit of a Hawker Hurricane aeroplane, which was on display in the town centre for the day.
If you missed this year's event, make sure to mark your calendar for next year, as it truly is an event not to be missed.
Have Your Say on the Future of Accrington Town Centre
At this year's festival, residents also had the chance to share their views on the future of Accrington town centre. The Pride in Place board, led by Sami Smithson, was on hand to speak with residents about their ideas. The whole purpose of Pride in Place is to restore pride in our communities. The food festival and other events are excellent examples of what can be achieved and proof that Accrington can be a bustling and vibrant centre.
Many residents have told me what a proud town Accrington has been over the years. All high streets are currently facing challenges, but I am urging the government to reduce business rates for high street businesses. Under Pride in Place, we have £20 million to spend over the next 10 years. Whether it's better lighting, more opportunities for young people, tackling vacant shops, or improving parking, we want your ideas before we launch the fund in the coming months.
This is your chance to influence how the money allocated by the government to our town is spent. To have your say, scan the QR code or email sarah.smith.mp@parliament.uk.
