Graham Jones

Haslingden MP

I JUST want to say how proud I am of the many civic minded people in Haslingden that have come forward to change the face of the town.

I do not know them all and I apologise for missing off the many and only naming the few.

Thank you to all the great volunteers who have dedicated money, time, resource and community to the Save Haslingden Baths. There must be over 50 people who have just turned up and worked for free or donated something, Steve Marshall and Selina Hope in particular. The baths were nominated for Pride of Britain awards.

Thanks also to all those at ViC who continue to provide a marvellous community facility. Since it was ‘won back’ by the community from a previous charity it has been transformed. One of the people who helped transform it is volunteer Darren Horsnell. Darren’s commitment to the community has led him to also be nominated for Pride of Britain award.

With the help of local councillors and the Mayor Marilyn Procter last year, the Remembrance Sunday parade has been revived.

Also nominated for the Pride of Britain was RAFT who do so much good with the most vulnerable. I know Geoff and Dorothy, two residents who contribute an enormous amount of time.

A new Chamber of Trade is up and running and Deardengate is attracting new business.

Then there is Rossendale’s woman of the year Leesa Amin, who is one of the driving forces behind LoveHaslingden (along with Selina), a social media campaign that says everything about the town and the people. Friendly, committed, community minded and determined to make Haslingden a great place.

There are many more organisations chipping in making a significant contribution; St Mary’s, Community Link and Friends of Acre who are all keen to see the town and the area on the up.

The town centre forum continues to be a backbone of Haslingden, a connection between the Council and civic society. This week I met with the Council Leader Alyson Barnes to discuss the next steps for the Council.

For me it is always a case of what next, what more can be done? There is no room for negativity but always room for kindness, generosity and community and that’s what Haslingden has in spades.