Catch up on our Mayor's recent engagements
Thursday 3rd July 2025 - Mayor’s Charity Fundraising Event – North Street Restaurant, Rawtenstall
I was delighted to hold my first fundraising event of my Mayoral term at North Street Restaurant in Rawtenstall. Thanks to the generosity of all who attended, we raised over £600 for my chosen charities: Bacup Pride, Carers Link Lancashire and Kids in Rossendale. Guests enjoyed a wonderful evening of excellent food, and I would like to thank the staff at North Street for looking after us so well.
Saturday 5th July 2025 - Rossendale Men’s Sheds Open Day & Relay for Life – Marl Pits
Rossendale Men’s Sheds provides a safe and welcoming place for socially isolated men, whether unemployed or retired, to meet, make friends and share skills. I enjoyed attending their open day and even had a go at wood turning – successfully making a wine bottle stopper!
Later that day, I joined the annual Relay for Life at Marl Pits, raising money for cancer research. It was a privilege to lead the first lap alongside a number of cancer survivors. The day also included a lovely well-being session and a delightful lunch, enjoyed by all.
Sunday 13th July 2025 - Licensing of Leila Allen as Associate Priest
The Mayoress and I attended a beautiful service led by Bishop Matthew for the licensing of Leila Allen as Associate Priest. I was honoured to share my thoughts about Leila, who is one of the most dedicated people I know. Her work in the community has touched many lives, and I am certain she will continue to make a difference in her new role.
Saturday 19th July 2025 - Opening of Victoria Park Wheeled Sports Facility & Garden Open Day – Higher Bridge Clough House
It was a pleasure to officially open the new wheeled sports facility at Victoria Park. Despite the rain, it was fantastic to see so many young people already making use of this exciting addition to the park.
Later that day, the Mayoress and I attended a Garden Open Day hosted by Karen at Higher Bridge Clough House. The event was held in aid of the NGS Charity Scheme and was a wonderful afternoon in beautiful surroundings.
Sunday 20th July 2025 - Royal British Legion Annual Church Service – St George’s Church, Tyldesley
Along with my guest, Cllr Judith Driver, I attended the annual Royal British Legion service at St George’s Church in Tyldesley. It was a moving service, joined by fellow Greater Manchester Mayors, to honour service personnel past and present.
Tuesday 22nd July 2025 - The King’s Trust Team Presentation – ACCROSS 35, Accrington
The Mayoress and I were pleased to attend the Team Presentation hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue for The King’s Trust. Young people from Rossendale have been taking part in a 12-week development programme, gaining skills to support their futures in work, college or training. It was inspiring to hear their journeys and celebrate their achievements.
Saturday 26th July 2025 - Opening of Edgeside Park Wheeled Sports Facility & Clitheroe Last Night of the Proms – Clitheroe Castle
We officially opened the new wheeled sports facility at Edgeside Park. This time the weather was on our side, and the Mayoress and I even had a go on a skateboard to join in the fun!
That evening, we joined other Lancashire Mayors at Clitheroe Castle for the Last Night of the Proms concert. We had a fantastic time singing along to everything from Gilbert and Sullivan to ABBA – and of course, the evening ended with rousing renditions of Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory.
Monday 28th July 2025 - Bacup Pride – RHS Britain in Bloom Judges Visit
The Mayoress and I joined Bacup Pride to welcome the RHS Britain in Bloom judges to Bacup. It was wonderful to see the hard work and dedication that has gone into making the town so vibrant and welcoming.
