It’s Brexit party time
LEAVE voters marked the UK’s long-awaited exit from the European Union with parties and private celebrations.
The country formally left the EU at 11pm on January 31 - although the nature of their future relationship is still to be determined.
Dawn Brizio, landlady of the Duke of Wellington pub in Great Harwood, said they had “an amazing turnout and an excellent evening” at their Brexit Day party, which included the unveiling of a patriotic mural, and Union flag cocktails.
The event, which was organised by Dawn and her friend Adam Birtwistle, was also visited by Hyndburn MP Sara Britcliffe and Coun Pat Mcginley and his wife.
A private Brexit party was hosted by Paul and Sarah Barton, in Rishton.
Sarah said “a fabulous night” included music, dancing, and a celebration at 11pm, starting with a rendition of Auld Lang Syne, followed by a firework display and concluding with the National Anthem.
Just under two-thirds of Hyndburn voters at the referendum in June 2016 supported Brexit, far in excess of the 52 per cent figure nationwide.
Hyndburn borough council opted not to mark the occasion with any civic events, although a spokesperson said ‘the borough proudly flies the Union Flag from its civic buildings at all times’.
Lancashire County Council likewise did not mark Brexit Day, although leader County Coun Geoff Driver said: “Like other councils we have been looking at what Brexit will mean for Lancashire, as well as for our service users, our workforce both now and in the future, our suppliers and service providers for some time.”