The Mayor of Rossendale has reflected on a busy period of community engagements, from honouring armed forces personnel to celebrating student achievements and enjoying the much-loved Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival.
Armed Forces Flag Raising and School Awards
In a solemn ceremony at the Cenotaph in Rawtenstall, the Mayor raised the Armed Forces flag, paying tribute to all those who serve and have served. The event was attended by Deputy Lieutenant Louise Cooper BEM, Reverend Hameem, the Mayor of Whitworth Louise Burton, councillors, officers, veterans, Civic Pride Volunteers, and members of the public. The Mayor expressed gratitude to the volunteers at St Mary’s Church for providing refreshments.
Together with Consort Steve Duxbury, the Mayor attended Belmont School’s Awards Ceremony at St Mary’s Chambers, celebrating student achievements. The Mayor praised the students as a credit to their teachers and staff and wished those leaving for new challenges the very best.
Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival Highlights
The highlight of June was the Bacup and Stacksteads Carnival, which featured a “Teddy Bears Picnic” theme. Community groups and schools embraced the theme with creative costumes and props, making judging challenging. Winners included 42nd Trinity Baptist and Fusion Dance & Fitness. The carnival continued in Stubbylee Park with entertainment, a funfair, stalls, and a dog show. The Mayor thanked Peter Sweetmore and Rossendale Radio for coordinating performances, and Paddy Marriott for accompaniment.
Bridleway Opening and Music Gala
The Mayor performed the first ribbon cutting of the mayoral year at the refurbished Marl Pits Bridleway, funded by Pride in Place, the Lancashire Environment Fund, and the British Horse Society. The investment aims to encourage use of the countryside and promote active lifestyles.
Steve and the Mayor attended the Lancashire Music Service Gala Concert at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester. The concert featured a full orchestra and schools including Helmshore Primary and Edenfield Primary, showcasing Lancashire’s musical talent.
Student Awards and Pride of Rossendale
At the East Lancashire Learning Group Students Award Evening, the Mayor celebrated achievements of students across East Lancashire. The group was recognised as the Number One College in the country in the Government’s National Achievement Rate Tables, a testament to staff and student dedication.
The Pride of Rossendale Awards honoured local people and groups, raising funds for Rossendale Hospice, one of the Mayor’s chosen charities. The event highlighted community spirit and positivity.
Armed Forces Anniversaries and Community Events
A busy weekend included the Duke of Lancaster Regiment’s 20th Anniversary and the 100th Anniversary of the Cenotaph in Preston, where the Mayor joined other Lancashire mayors. A visit to Fulwood Barracks allowed conversations with serving soldiers about their experiences.
The Lumb Millennium Green Fun and Fitness Day was held for the first time, well supported by local groups. The Mayor hopes it becomes an annual event. Later, the Mayor attended the Mayor of Whitworth’s Civic Sunday at St Anselm’s RC Church.
Full Council and School Performance
At the first Full Council meeting chaired by the Mayor, Alderman status was conferred on former councillors Janice Johnson and Brian Essex, recognising their long service to the community.
The Mayor and Steve Duxbury enjoyed a performance of “Wicked – Somewhere in Oz” at Newchurch St Nicholas Primary School, where children performed their interpretation of “Dorothy from Rossendale.” The Mayor praised the enthusiasm and talent on display, thanking the Cottonshed Theatre Company and all involved.
