INSIDE „Market revamp latest p2 „£800 for lunch clubs p3 „Watch out for the HEF! p4/5 „Help for young homeless p7 NewsThe newspaper of Ribble Valley Borough Council Summer 2015 £3m boost for local economy as boroughs host Aviva Tour of Britain RIBBLE Valley is to co-host one of the passed through on its way from biggest free-to-spectate sporting Rochdale to Blackpool, and the first time events in the UK on Monday, that or Colne have been a host September 7. venue. The world’s top cyclists and tens of And the event looks set give the visitor thousands of spectators will descend on economy in the two boroughs a Ribble Valley and Pendle for Stage 2 of £3million boost. the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain. The Aviva Tour of Britain is the UK’s Stage 2 will see 20 of the world’s top premier road cycling event and cycling teams, including Olympic and broadcast internationally by 16 television world champions, and Tour de France channels across 139 territories in Europe, stage winners, power through Ribble Australia and the USA. Valley and Pendle from Clitheroe to zSee the four-page supplement with Colne, taking in the Nick o’ Pendle climb, this edition of Ribble Valley News for Dunsop Bridge, Slaidburn in the Forest of more information about this exciting Bowland and Barnoldswick. event, including a pull-out map It will be the first visit of the Tour of featuring spectator zones and car Britain to the two boroughs since 2010, parks, and how local schoolchildren when the opening stage of the race are taking the Stage 2 legacy to Kenya. We’re officially one of the UK’s hidden gems RIBBLE Valley has the best rural “All of this is down to elected quality of life in the North West a members, who draw upon many diverse top survey has revealed. talents, a committed senior management And Clitheroe is the eighth best team and a loyal and dedicated market town in which to live in the UK workforce. according to a national newspaper. “We are delighted with these results Residents of Ribble Valley enjoy the and might have fared even better in the best quality of life of any rural area in survey had it not been for the weather!” the North West, according to the 2015 The survey found that southern areas Halifax Rural Areas Quality of Life tended to receive higher ratings for Survey. weekly earnings and the weather, while The survey took a wide range of northern areas scored better on factors into account, including crime education, lower house prices in relation rates, employment, school results, to earnings, lower traffic flows and broadband access, health and wellbeing, population densities. life expectancy and the weather! Ribble Valley is the safest place in Ribble Valley Borough Council leader and one of the safest in the Stuart Hirst (pictured) said: “These UK, with around 28 crimes recorded results reveal what we have always annually for every 1,000 residents, which known, that Ribble Valley is one of the is significantly below the national average UK’s hidden gems. and the lowest in Lancashire. “The council works hard with its partners to keep crime rates low and The borough is also one of the UK’s ensure the borough remains one of the premier food destinations and in best places in the country in which to September will host Stage 2 of the Aviva live, work and raise a family. Tour of Britain, the UK’s largest free-to- “Although only a small rural spectate sporting event. authority, the council has an excellent Clitheroe was also recently placed record of success, enjoying a level of eighth in the UK’s Top 10 Market customer satisfaction that is the envy of Towns by the Times newspaper, while neighbouring authorities, as well as Whalley was named one of the Top 10 healthy reserves and one of the lowest Places to Live in the UK by the Sunday council tax rates in the country. Times. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk 2 Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News

Council leader’s Council tax frozen for the sixth year running message RIBBLE Valley Borough Council has Council leader Stuart Hirst praised the country – a significant achievement built on announced a council tax freeze without cuts dedication and hard work of council staff many years of careful financial planning. in jobs or services for the sixth year running. and councillors for delivering efficient and “I am grateful to councillors and staff for We’re back, but The council has frozen its 2015/16 council cost-effective services in difficult times. their dedication and commitment in tax without the need for compulsory He said: “I am delighted that Ribble continuing to deliver efficient and cost- the challenges redundancies or service cuts, despite a 14 Valley’s share of the council tax has been effective services, while maintaining high per cent reduction in Government grants. frozen and core services protected for the levels of customer satisfaction.” Support for charities and voluntary sixth successive year. Council tax bills include precepts from still remain organisations will also be maintained. “This has been achieved despite a Lancashire County Council, Lancashire THE General Election of 2015 will be Ribble Valley Borough Council’s share of reduction in core Government funding of 14 Constabulary, Lancashire Fire and Rescue memorable for many reasons and not the council tax on a Band D property per cent, a total of 40 per cent since 2010. Service and parishes. least for its astonishing and unforeseen remains at £140.69, the lowest in Lancashire “Ribble Valley has the lowest council tax in Full details are available at outcome. Not only were the predictions and one of the lowest in the country. Lancashire and one of the lowest in the www.ribblevalley.gov.uk. of the pollsters confounded, but the victory of the SNP in Scotland was a political volte-face of seismic proportions. In Ribble Valley, which hosted national and local elections for the first time in 20 years, the ruling Conservative Market revamp moves administration was returned with an increased majority. I would like to thank residents for their ongoing confidence in our ability to build on past successes and extend a warm welcome to the newly elected councillors of all political colours. By any assessment Ribble Valley is a closer to completion high performing council, with a record of nationally recognised achievements over the last four years that compares with THE proposed redevelopment Britain in September, the the best performing authorities in the of Clitheroe Market took a redevelopment of Clitheroe country. While acknowledging what has step closer this week after the Market reflects the ambitious and been achieved, the new council is now shortlist of six potential confident way in which the looking to address the serious developers was reduced to council is promoting and challenges that lie ahead. two. developing the borough’s Over the forthcoming year, we will Research into the viability of a economic potential.” have to balance the budget for 2016/17, redevelopment of the market site Colin Hirst (pictured left), despite further inevitable grant cuts. We Ribble Valley Borough Council’s was presented to Ribble Valley want to see the contract for the head of regeneration and housing, Borough Council last year. Clitheroe Market re-development signed added: “The final submissions The selection of a development and ready to go, and we will be building will be evaluated with a view to partner in line with the council’s on the success of the borough’s Core making a recommendation to the procurement procedures started Strategy, by completing the land council’s policy and finance and a shortlist of six potential allocations work. developers was drawn up. committee in September. In the longer term, sweeping changes Now the shortlist has been “We will then select a partner, to local government in England have reduced to two, who were due to who will work up a detailed been given legislative flesh in the make their final submissions as scheme and submit a planning Queen’s Speech, which will speed up the Ribble Valley News went to press. application for a retail-led mixed- process of devolution to our city region Ribble Valley Borough Council use market development and car combined authorities. leader Stuart Hirst said: “This is park. The Northern Powerhouse is a a fantastic opportunity to bring “This is a fantastic opportunity growing reality, as is the stark reality that modern retail and leisure facilities to bring modern retail and leisure Lancashire is currently well behind the to Clitheroe town centre, and the facilities to Clitheroe town centre, proposed scheme has generated curve of our metropolitan neighbours in and the proposed scheme strong interest from developers Manchester and Liverpool. generated strong interest from across the country. We should embrace these changes as developers across the country. “Although only a small rural an opportunity, not a problem, and seek “We expect a planning authority, the council has an to build a leadership role for Ribble application will be submitted and excellent record of success, Valley. As such, not only will we have an approved by next March, with enjoying a level of customer equal say at the top table, but will secure work starting in the summer. satisfaction that is the envy of that other paramount objective for the “We will be holding discussions neighbouring authorities, as well long term – the preservation of the with market tenants and as healthy reserves and one of the independence of Ribble Valley and the businesses who may be affected lowest council tax rates in the end to calls for our abolition within a country. by the proposed redevelopment unitary ‘super council’in East Lancashire. “Along with hosting the Tour of over the coming months.” I have no doubt that this will be the emphatic wish of residents throughout Free advice on renovation of listed buildings Ribble Valley. FREE preliminary advice on the care, repair building is a criminal offence that can lead to costly protect the built environment and if you look and renovation of listed buildings is available restoration work, court fines and even around Ribble Valley you can see just what a good to Ribble Valley residents. imprisonment. job they have been doing. But help is at hand thanks to free advice from “Well-informed advice is a premium and the key And residents are warned that putting their the borough council on the care, repair and is to work with planners from the outset, which stamp on listed buildings without permission can restoration of listed buildings. can save a lot of heartache and expense down the cost them dearly or land them in jail. Sue Bibby, chairman of Ribble Valley Borough line. Our officers are just a phone call away.” Stuart Hirst, Anyone buying a listed building is acquiring a Council’s planning and development committee, The free advice is also available to workmen Leader, Ribble piece of the country’s national heritage, as well as a said: “Historic buildings are an important aspect of who have been asked to undertake work on what Valley new home, so it’s vital they understand what they the character and appearance of our towns, they suspect might be a listed building. Borough are taking on before they start knocking it about. villages and countryside. Further details are available from Ribble Valley Council Carrying out unauthorised alterations to a listed “Conservationists and planners have a duty to Borough council on 01200 425111. Ribble Valley News Summer 2015 3 New homeowners are urged to travel by rail A WELCOME pack promoting local rail Community Rail Partnership and chairman of transport could prove just the ticket for new local support group Ribble Valley Rail, added: homeowners in Ribble Valley. “Lancashire’s community railways provide an The pack, devised by Community Rail excellent means by which to explore the county Lancashire and supported by Ribble Valley and provide vital links for students and commuters Borough Council, features a host of information travelling travelling across the region. “There has been an increase in the use of local and advice, including train timetables, local rail rail services in recent years, particularly the history, a Rail Ramblers guided walks programme Clitheroe to Manchester rail line, and we and how to get involved in local rail support anticipate further increases in passenger traffic in groups. the future. Ribble Valley Borough Council leader Stuart "Improvements will be taking place this year to Health service Hirst said: “Ribble Valley is a happening place. It is all four Ribble Valley rail stations as part of the one of the most desirable places in which to live major scheme upgrade for the Clitheroe to and work in the UK, with a reputation for fine Manchester line, including the provision of real- champ is our food and great days out. time information screens and new passenger “We want people to visit the borough and what waiting shelters. new mayor better way to enjoy our stunning scenery than “Through joint initiatives with Northern Rail travelling by train. and other partners, excellent value tickets are “We also want the borough’s new homeowners available that help travelers go a bit further for A FORMER health service director to make the most of rail travel in their daily their money, and now these packs are bringing and public health champion is commutes to , Preston, Manchester and comprehensive information to the doorsteps of Ribble Valley’s new mayor. zJUST THE TICKET: Colin Hirst, Ribble Valley beyond, as well as enjoy the leisure opportunities potential new rail users.” Borough Council’s head of regeneration and Born and brought up a stone’s that local rail travel has to offer.” The packs are being distributed to new housing; technical support throw from the famous Giant’s Marjorie Birch, vice-chairman of the Clitheroe homeowners by housing sales offices. officer Sue Harrison, Marjorie Birch and Stuart Hirst Causeway in Northern Ireland, Bridget Hilton trained as a nurse and midwife at Birch Hill Hospital in Rochdale. It was during midwifery training that Bridget witnessed the effect of poor social conditions on people’s Success on a plate for health and wellbeing, which sparked a lifelong interest in public health. Bridget then undertook further professional training at Bradford University, before working as a health visitor in South Kensington. community groups Two years later, she took up her first management post and spent the A TASTY £800 is on the menu rest of her career in health sector for Ribble Valley community management. groups looking to start or After working in for 10 improve luncheon clubs. years, she moved to Guildford in The money can be used to start a Surrey and in 1981 took up a senior new club, develop an existing one by management post with the then buying new crockery or cookware, Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble or providing activities. It can also be Valley District Health Authority. used to support other projects that Following NHS reorganisation, engage older residents on a regular she was appointed director of basis, such as coffee mornings and operational services at the newly- afternoon teas. established Communicare NHS Luncheon clubs, sometimes called Trust, which became the Hyndburn lunch clubs, provide older people and Ribble Valley Primary Care Trust with the opportunity to socialise in 1995, where Bridget was over a regular hot nutritious meal. They can have a membership of a appointed executive director of few up to dozens and operate in a service provision. range of venues, such as pubs, It was at her retirement restaurants, community or church presentation that former Ribble halls. Valley Borough Council leader Chris Ribble Valley Borough Council’s Holtom suggested Bridget should partnership officer, Dilys Day, said: stand as a borough councillor and “Luncheon clubs keep older people she was duly elected to represent engaged in local life, giving them a the Waddington and West Bradford sense of involvement and belonging. in the local elections of 2007. “They provide an essential service In 2013, Bridget was appointed in rural areas, by offering a friendly chairman of Ribble Valley Borough meeting place for those who cannot readily leave their village and Council’s health and housing committee and nominated to sit on consequently suffer isolation and zTASTY OFFER: Dilys Day and Stella Brunskill (right) with members of the Mellor Luncheon Club loneliness. the statutory health and wellbeing “They also help in the Council. casserole with Yorkshire pudding. congratulated for providing such an board at Lancashire County Council. identification of underlying An enthusiastic team of volunteer Cook Jean Walmsley said: “We essential and much-loved service.” She has been a co-opted member problems that may contribute to a cooks and helpers serve a hot two- have about 16 members, who really Community groups interested in of the county council’s health decline in health, thus helping to course meal made from fresh local look forward to attending.They starting or improving a lunch club scrutiny committee since 2006. make the lives of older residents produce followed by tea or coffee don’t just receive a hot meal, but get are invited to a meeting in the Bridget has one adult son who safer and healthier.” every Friday. to socialise, too.” Ribble Valley Borough Council lives and works in Manchester. Her The popular Mellor Luncheon For just £4, participants can enjoy Mellor councillor Stella Brunskill Chamber in Church Street, mayoress is Mrs Kathleen Hill and a range of dishes, including salmon added: “The Mellor Luncheon Club Clitheroe, on Thursday, September Club has been meeting at the her chosen charities are Dementia Mellor Methodist Church Hall for hollandaise with new potatoes and is an invaluable part of village life 17, from 10.30am to noon. Care and Macmillan Cancer Support, 10 years and receives annual vegetables, followed by peaches and and the committed team of Further details are available from funding from Ribble Valley Borough cream, or a club favourite, sausage volunteers who run it are to be Dilys Day on 01200 425111. both for services in Ribble Valley. 4 Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News Ribble Valley News Summer 2015 5 So are you registered How your vote shaped our borough to vote? CHANGES to the way Ribble RIBBLE Valley Borough Council BILLINGTON AND OLD LANGHO Sue Hind (01200 446365 / 07977 ST MARY’S Valley residents register to vote are now in force. has 40 councillors representing Stephen Atkinson (07718 806286) 548506) Graham Geldard (01200 422834 / [email protected] [email protected] 07834 065250) Before individual electoral 24 wards. Ged Mirfin (01254 824627) [email protected] registration, or IER, one person in every household was The election saw the ruling [email protected] GISBURN AND RIMINGTON Ruth Hargreaves (07807 317323) responsible for registering Conservative group gain one Richard Else Sherras (01200 445429) [email protected] BOWLAND, NEWTON AND [email protected] voters at their address, but seat taking their tally to 35, under the new scheme each SLAIDBURN SABDEN with the remaining five seats resident registers individually. Rosemary Elms (01200 446318 / LANGHO Richard Newmark (01282 771534 / Ribble Valley households split between the Liberal 07968 126546) Alison Brown (07757 283562) 079583 60893) will soon receive a household Democrats with four and one [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Paula Dobson (07917 164456) enquiry form, or HEF, asking RIBBLE Valley went to the polls on Labour. whether or not members of CHATBURN [email protected] SALTHILL Thursday, May 7, in a unique triple The Conservative Group is Gary Scott (01200 441775) the household are registered led by Stuart Hirst, who is Ian Brown (01200 426127) to vote. Details on the form election. [email protected] LITTLEMOOR [email protected] known as the council leader, Mark French (07821 886550) must be verified and the form It is the first time since 1979 that Pamela Dowson (07811 378446) returned to the council. and the Liberal Democrats by CHIPPING [email protected] [email protected] Ribble Valley has hosted Simon Hore (01995 61021) Susan Knox (01200 424936 / 07905 Residents not on the Allan Knox. [email protected] 257679) electoral register may also WADDINGTON AND WEST Parliamentary, borough and parish Ribble Valley councillors are [email protected] receive an invitation to BRADFORD CLAYTON-LE-DALE WITH register, or ITR, which also elections simultaneously, and generally approachable Paul Elms (07989 609555) RAMSGREAVE MELLOR must be completed and people, with the best interests [email protected] voters turned out in their droves. Peter Ainsworth (01254 812235) Stella Brunskill (01254 812694) returned. Alternatively, they Bridget Hilton (01254 481683) Over 52,000 residents, nearly 68 of the community at heart. If [email protected] [email protected] can register to vote online. [email protected] Individual electoral per cent of the electorate, cast you are concerned about a Doreen Taylor (01254 812809) Noel Walsh (01254 813365) local issue, they will be happy [email protected] [email protected] More secure their votes at 83 polling stations WHALLEY to hear from you. Please see Terry Hill (01254 822106) registration is the biggest across Ribble Valley and parts of DERBY AND THORNLEY PRIMROSE their details below. Stuart Carefoot (07889 404022) Allan Knox (01200 424936) [email protected] change to electoral South Ribble included in the [email protected] [email protected] Joyce Holgate MBE (01254 823622) registration for over a century Parliamentary constituency. Jim White (01772 786718) Mary Robinson (01200 423896) [email protected] and aims to make registration Contact your councillor [email protected] [email protected] more secure, while protecting Council staff worked flat out for WILPSHIRE against voting fraud. The over 24 hours out to administer AIGHTON, BAILEY AND CHAIGLEY DILWORTH READ AND SIMONSTONE Sue Bibby (01254 248446) Electoral Commission believes Janet Alcock (01254 822990) Ken Hind (01200 446365) Richard Bennett (07931 442540) [email protected] it will modernise voter the triple election covering 23 [email protected] [email protected] Stuart Hirst (01254 240912 / 07989 registration and make it easier, wards, 11 parishes and one ALSTON AND HOTHERSALL Rupert Swarbrick (07779 572663) Lesley Graves (01282 776559) 303684) simpler and faster for people to register to vote. Parliamentary constituency. James Rogerson (01772 782288) [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] RIBCHESTER Ribble Valley Borough Read on to find out what became David Smith (01772 782424) EDISFORD AND LOW MOOR Ian Sayers (01254 878184) WISWELL AND PENDLETON Council’s electoral and licensing officer, Jane of your all-important vote and [email protected] Maureen Fenton (01200 425964) [email protected] Robert Thompson (01254 822794) [email protected] [email protected] Horsfield, said: “Voting is our who your new councillor is. democratic right and individual electoral registration gives electors control over their registration. Staff work flat out as poll Our constitution ensures “The new online application process means it is now no more difficult to register to vote than shopping online and provides a secure, convenient attracts voters in droves your council runs smoothly and modern way of registering VOTERS turned out in their droves to The council’s chief executive, Marshal Scott, in in as little as three minutes.” choose borough and parish councillors, as his capacity as returning officer, said: “Staff in RIBBLE Valley Borough Council has a to attend and will find a warm welcome, as well as If you are not on the well as a Member of Parliament, in Ribble polling stations worked from 6.30am until at least constitution, which sets out how the the opportunity to speak, or ask a question. electoral register, you cannot Valley’s unique triple election. 10pm, with those involved in the count continuing organisation operates, how decisions are made Residents wishing to speak or ask a question and vote in elections or until past 5am, which is a 24-hour shift. The Parliamentary election attracted eight and the procedures that ensure those decisions requiring an immediate response are asked to referendums, including the “It was a mammoth effort, with some staff back contact the council’s committee services team no candidates and sitting MP Nigel Evans are efficient, transparent and accountable. forthcoming referendum on in work at 10am on Friday for the borough later than two days before the meeting. Residents whether or not Britain should representing the Conservative Party was elected Although the council’s day-to-day business is with 25,404 votes. election count. not requiring a response can contact the committee overseen by a corporate management team remain in the European Union, There was a 67.74 percent turnout in the “It was a tremendous effort by all involved services team as late as noon on the day of the which is scheduled to take ensuring that local voters enjoyed an efficient, comprising chief executive Marshal Scott and two Parliamentary election and 168 spoilt ballot meeting. place by the end of 2017, but open and transparent election.” directors – resources director Jane Pearson and Only Ribble Valley residents may speak at papers. expected to take place by the Ribble Valley Borough Council leader Stuart community services director John Heap – important meetings and contributions are limited three All seats on Ribble Valley Borough Council, end of 2016. apart from two in Waddington and West Bradford, Hirst said: “It is the first time since 1979 that the decisions are made by councillors via four minutes and one person per agenda item. Residents who voted in the were also contested and there were parish elections borough has administered three elections committees, namely planning and development, Public participation lasts for 15 minutes at the in Clitheroe, Longridge (Dilworth and Derby simultaneously, which placed a tremendous community, health and housing, policy and finance. beginning of each meeting and speaking slots are May elections are already on wards), Gisburn, the Sawley and Gisburn Forest amount of work on officers.“I would like to Their work is supported by a licensing committee allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. the electoral register, but are wards of Bolton-by-Bowland, Gisburn Forest and congratulate the returning officer and his team for and accounts and audit committee that deal with A meetings calendar and committee agendas are still asked to return their HEF. Sawley, and the Rimington ward of Rimington and their magnificent efforts in helping to deliver an regulatory business. available at ribblevalley.gov.uk and further details Those who are not can register Middop. efficient and successful election.” Committee meetings are held in the Ribble Valley about public participation are available from the at gov.uk/register-to-vote. Council staff worked flat out to administer the Election results for each ward are available at Civic Suite in Church Street, Clitheroe, and usually council’s committee services team on 01200 triple election that last happened in 1979. ribblevalley.gov.uk. start at 6.30pm. Members of the public are welcome 425111. 6 Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News

LEISURE and fitness in Ribble Valley is top of the league Group, offers a range of classes for people with specific thanks to Ribble Valley Borough Council. health needs and enjoys a satisfaction rating of 97 per Stepping out From health schemes tailored to residents with specific cent. needs, to cycling festivals for all the family, to the And as well as recently facilitating the first Ribble Valley for a summer forthcoming Tour of Britain, sport and leisure in Ribble Cycling Festival, the borough is also hosting Stage 2 of the of top walks Valley is racing to success. 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain, the UK’s biggest free-to-spectate Nearly 5,000 residents have signed up to the council’s sporting event, on Monday, September 7, one of the AN award-winning walking scheme successful healthy lifestyles scheme since it started in 2001. biggest events in the borough’s 40-year history. that has helped Ribble Valley residents take great strides in The programme, run in conjunction with Public Health Read on to find out why sport and leisure in Ribble Valley is health and fitness for over a Lancashire and the East Lancashire Clinical Commissioning in a league of its own. decade has launched its 2015 summer programme. Stepping Out was set up by Ribble Valley Borough Council in 2004 to promote walking as an effective and low-risk form of Tai chi to help those with physical activity for those who are inactive. Started with a handful of volunteers and two treks a week, it now offers a bustling programme of weekly walks of varying lengths and difficulty facilitated by an mobility issues enthusiastic team of over 30 specially-trained volunteer walk RIBBLE Valley Borough Council has “Bill has a wealth of experience and has leaders. joined forces with a local tai chi expert worked with people with a variety of health It attracts over 130 weekly participants, 80 per cent of who to offer courses in the ancient art for problems. He shares our philosophy that have been attending Stepping Out residents with mobility or balance everyone, no matter what their age or ability, can benefit from tai chi. for over two years. problems. “We plan to start a class initially for our Stepping Out co-ordinator Barrie Tai chi, which originates from ancient healthy lifestyle clients struggling with Williams (pictured) said: “Evidence China, is famed for its health benefits and mobility and balance, and if successful the is increasingly showing walking’s can help improve posture and flexibility, scheme will be expanded and continued.” many benefits. You don’t have to strengthen muscles and joints and reduce Around 30 per cent of adults aged over be fit to walk and the elderly, as pain and stress. 65 and living at home will experience at well as those recovering from Recent research suggests its least one fall a year, rising to 50 per cent of illness, can enjoy it – and it’s free. straightforward, slow-moving and adults aged over 80. Most falls do not result “Stepping Out encourages coordinated exercises can reduce the risk of in serious injury, but five per cent do, such people who might not otherwise falls among older people by improving as broken bones. be active to enjoy the benefits of balance, strength, flexibility and mobility, as Tracy Balko added: “Falls are usually walking in a friendly, welcoming well as calming the mind. more serious and expensive to manage in and non-competitive environment. Regular practice of tai chi can help the elderly, due to the cost of in-patient and people move, stand, balance and walk with “It is now one of Lancashire’s residential care. most successful health greater confidence through a greater “They can also have an adverse programmes and we are delighted understanding and sensitivity of the body." psychological impact on sufferers, who can that it is going from strength to The council’s healthy lifestyles team has lose confidence, become withdrawn and feel been delivering tai chi for a number of as if they have lost their independence. strength. years, but has now joined forces with “Tai chi can help those at risk improve “I would like to thank our team Clitheroe tai chi expert Bill Wilkinson to their strength, balance and confidence, and of dedicated and hard-working offer 12-week courses aimed specifically at we are delighted to be working with Bill volunteers for helping to make the residents with mobility or balance problems. Wilkinson on this new initiative.î scheme such a success.” Bill has been practising Chen-style tai The course is open to residents with Stepping Out includes evening chi, the oldest and original form of tai chi, balance and mobility issues by referral from and weekend walks, as well as for over 15 years and teaching it for 10. their GP or health professional and further short, gentle treks for residents Tracy Balko, Ribble Valley Borough details are available from Tracy Balko on with restricted mobility, all taking Council’s health and fitness officer, said: 01200 425111. in some of Ribble Valley’s most scenic spots. There are also Nordic walking sessions on Tuesday mornings at Longridge Community Bikers saddle up for area’s first cycling festival Gym and “prambles”for people with prams and pushchairs, also on OVER 2,000 cycling enthusiasts Edisford Road Car Park that Tuesdays. got on their bikes for the first attracted over 200 participants. Further information and a Ribble Valley Cycling Festival. The council’s sports Stepping Out programme are available from Ribble Valley The festival, coordinated and development officer, Peter Borough Council on 01200 425111. funded by Ribble Valley Borough Fletcher, said: “We are delighted Council, featured a host of with how the festival went and activities, including family bike the excitement it created has rides, a pop-up velodrome, a bike- been fantastic. It attracted over powered concert and an evening 2,000 participants over the course with cycling celebrity Ned of the week and gave us a great Boulting. platform on which to build in the The festival started with a free future.” bike clinic, giveaways and The festival was a prelude to refreshments, in the Ribble Valley the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain, Borough Council Car Park. which will see 20 of the world’s There was a bike-powered top cycling teams power through concert featuring Good Foxy, The Ribble Valley from Clitheroe to Ragamuffins and The Remedy at Colne via the Nick o’ Pendle, the Bandstand Whalley, Longridge, Dunsop that attracted a 600-strong crowd Bridge and on zON THEIR BIKES: Peter Fletcher, with colleague Zainub Ukadia and ‘Dr Bike’ Jim Nolan and a mini-velodrome at the Monday, September 7. Ribble Valley News Summer 2015 7 A NEW three-bedroom home in Ribble Valley for less families have lived in for generations. than £70,000 might sound far-fetched, but exactly There is also a chronic shortage of accommodation that is up for grabs thanks to the borough council. for young single people and the elderly. The council has joined forces with developers and Shared ownership houses can cost as little as housing associations to tackle the borough’s £68,000 for a 40 per cent share, with around £235 shortage of affordable homes. rent on the remainder, while rented properties are House prices in Ribble Valley are way above the available from as little as £340 a month. national average – a modest family home now costs Read on to find out how Ribble Valley Borough around 10 times the average salary – and first-time Council has the key to the door for the local residents buyers are being forced out of the communities their with the most pressing housing needs. Keeping the A helping hand for elderly safe in their homes ELDERLY residents in Ribble Valley can live more safely and comfortably in their own homes thanks to a partnership between the borough our young homeless council and home improvement charity Homewise. HELP is at hand for young homeless regular place to stay. Homewise offers a host of advice, people in Ribble Valley thanks to a “Although youth homelessness is more support and assistance, including collaboration between the borough prevalent in urban areas, Ribble Valley is not protection from rip-off contractors and council, Clitheroe Christians in immune and we are delighted to work with our a handyman service for a small charge Partnership and YMCA Blackburn. partners to bring this much need facility into plus materials, or in some cases free. The three organisations have joined forces to use.” The scheme offers comprehensive purchase and run a house in Clitheroe town Ribble Valley joinery student Jake, 19, advice on all aspects of home centre that will be used as supported became homeless after family breakdown and improvements, adaptation, repairs and accommodation for young homeless people said living at the house for 18 months had maintenance, a list of trusted taking their first step into independent living. enabled him turn his life round. tradesmen, assistance with raising According to Government figures, 52 per “There is two of use in the house at the funds to pay for work, energy- moment and it has been great living near my cent of homeless people are under 25 and one efficiency grants and subsidies, gran. in 100 young people will experience recycled disability aids, a free security “Being settled has helped me deal with my homelessness in their lifetime, usually due to scheme for residents over 60 and the family breakdown. problems and turn my life around, and I will provision and installation of low- Homeless young people have poorer mental zKEY TO THE DOOR: Jake with (from the left) Ruth soon qualify as a joiner. energy light bulbs for residents over and physical health than their peers, are more Haldane of Clitheroe Christians in Partnership, “The house has been brilliant and I would likely to have alcohol or drug problems and Lorraine Prentice of YMCA Blackburn and Rachael encourage any young person in Ribble Valley 70. many are not in education, employment or Stott facing homelessness to reach out for help.” Homewise staff are trained by training, purely because of their homelessness. council, which is working closely with housing Ribble Valley Borough Council is at the Lancashire Constabulary to provide Ribble Valley Borough Council’s housing partners to address the problem. forefront of several housing initiatives, from the crime prevention advice, undertake strategy manager, Rachael Stott, said: “The “Local young people commonly deal with provision of affordable properties in partnership security surveys of homes, provide and provision of housing for the young and elderly homelessness by spending a night here and a with the housing sector to cutting-edge energy install security measures to doors and is one of the biggest challenges facing the night there, called sofa-surfing, and have no efficiency. windows, and anti-distraction burglary kits to help residents tackle unscrupulous door-to-door salesmen and rogue tradesmen. They also make referrals to the Affordable homes up for grabs in Barrow Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service for fire safety checks and advice on the TWENTY-EIGHT affordable homes will what’s on offer at installation of smoke alarms. be up for grabs in Barrow by local residents Barleyfields, which will The council’s housing strategy from October. provide new high-quality manager, Rachael Stott, said: “Ribble The two and three-bedroom houses will be affordable family homes Valley has an above average number of available on a shared ownership or affordable in a desirable area, where elderly residents and we are working the need for such rented basis at the former Pendle Garage site, hard to address their specific housing properties is high.” now called Barleyfields. needs, thereby helping them live Barleyfields is being developed by North West The provision of affordable housing is one independently and safely in their housing association Great Places Housing Group homes. and affordable home ownership company of the biggest challenges “Homewise can offer a wealth of Plumlife in partnership with Ribble Valley facing Ribble Valley Borough Council. Borough Council, which housing advice and support to elderly Shared ownership allows residents to buy from is working closely with residents, as well as protect them from 35 to 75 per cent of a new home and pay rent on housing partners to the rip-off tactics of unscrupulous the remainder, with the option of increasing their address the problem. contractors.” share as their circumstances change. Ribble Valley Borough Sue Sinclair, manager Homewise, Council is at the The council’s housing strategy manager, added: “We are delighted to be Rachael Stott, said: “We are delighted to have forefront of several zRachael Stott and Tom Johnson with (left) Christine Grimshaw, managing offering our service to elderly residents supported this excellent scheme, which will make housing initiatives, from the provision of affordable director of Ribble Valley Homes in Ribble Valley and while we may not much-needed high-quality rental and shared be able to solve every problem we will ownership properties available to residents with a properties in partnership bungalows are currently available in Whalley, certainly do our best to try.” local connection.” with the housing sector to cutting-edge energy Billington and at other sites in Barrow. Tom Johnson, neighbourhood coordinator for efficiency. Anyone interested in a shared ownership or For further information contact East Lancashire at Great Places Housing Group, As well as Barleyfields, shared ownership affordable rented property should contact Ribble Homewise on 01254 232249 or Ribble added: “Ribble Valley residents struggling to get properties featuring one-bedroom apartments, Valley Borough Council’s housing team on Valley Borough Council’s housing team onto the property ladder will be delighted with four-bedroom family homes and two-bedroom 01200 414567. on 01200 425111. 8 Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News

RIBBLE Valley residents are invited to take the plunge in a free new fitness scheme currently Take the plunge with Swimtag making waves across the country. Ribblesdale Pool in Clitheroe is to host Swimtag, which offers swimmers analytical data via a unique wristband. The Swimtag wristband feeds detailed information from a swimming session to a dedicated web site, featuring a profile page with a colour-coded graph outlining average pace, rest times and stroke rates. The page also includes a swim summary, personal best, training plan progression and information from the user’s swimming pool. Colin Winterbottom, Ribble Valley Borough Council’s culture and leisure services manager, said: “A gentle swim can burn over 200 calories in half an hour and a fast front crawl can burn as many calories as an eight-mile run. “Swimming can support up to ninety per cent of the body’s weight in water, meaning those with disabilities, injuries or illnesses, such as arthritis, can also take part in sport in a comfortable and safe environment. “Swimtag is a valuable aid to swimmers by motivating and encouraging them to reach their goals, and it’s free.” A recent survey has revealed that 52 per cent of swimmers had been motivated by using Swimtag and 62 per cent said it had helped them improve their swimming. Further details about Swimtag are available from Ribblesdale Pool on 01200 424825. 2015: ‘an exciting year for tourism’

DAYTRIPPERS and weekenders are flocking to walking; weddings, the arts, a What’s On and Ribble Valley in their droves, latest figures have comprehensive accommodation listings. revealed. It also features recipes from top local chefs Gareth And Ribble Valley Borough Council has published its Bevan of Food by Breda Murphy and Ryan Greene of the 2015 visitor guide, Discover Ribble Valley. Foxfields Country Hotel, Billington. The new-look guide was redesigned in a coffee table Ribble Valley Borough Council’s tourism and events magazine style two years’ ago, following consultation with officer, Tom Pridmore, said: “2015 is an exciting year for customers and advertisers. It has been a great success, tourism in Ribble Valley, which is hosting Stage 2 of this doubling in size from previous editions and attracting year’s Tour of Britain and, as well as being a premier food significant interest. destination, is now an emerging wedding destination. This year’s guide features sections on food, shopping, “Discover Ribble Valley focuses on businesses with a real heritage, outdoor activities, particularly cycling and story to tell offering authentic visitor experiences around the themes of food, outdoor pursuits and weddings. “The guide has been very well received since undergoing a revamp and demand for it is increasing year-on-year.” A new-look Freedom card! According to national figures, visitor numbers in Ribble Valley increased by 1.6 per cent in 2012, from 3.6million SPRIGHTLY silvers and servicemen and women in Ribble Valley to 3.66million, with an increase in tourism spend of 4.4 can grab a gym-swim membership for just £21 per month. per cent, from £169.6million to £177.1million. Ribble Valley Borough Council has joined forces with Ribble Valley Borough Council spearheaded the multi- Ribblesdale Pool and Roefield Leisure Centre to offer a new- award-winning Ribble Valley Food Trail, is a principal look Freedom card. partner in the Clitheroe Food Festival and is at the The card now offers unlimited daytime classes and gym forefront of Ribble Valley Wedding Heaven, a partnership access at Roefield Leisure Centre in Clitheroe, along with between the council and 15 venues licensed for marriage unlimited swimming at nearby Ribblesdale Pool. ceremonies and civil partnerships aimed at promoting the Classes include Pilates, tai chi, aqua aerobics and stretch borough as a premier wedding destination. clinic, as well as active life and circuit sessions. Discover Ribble Valley has been distributed to tourism zRibble Valley Borough Council’s tourism and events officer, The Freedom card is also available to residents in receipt of exhibitions and visitor information centres across the UK. Tom Pridmore, with tourism interns Zsofi Varhegyi (left) from income support benefits. It is also available from the Visitor Information Centre and the International Business Academy in Denmark and Further details are available from Ribblesdale Pool on 01200 Platform Gallery in Station Road, Clitheroe (01200 Alexandra Nagy from the Budapest University of Technology 424825. 425566). and Economics, who have joined the authority for four months. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk

Published by Ribble Valley Borough Council, Church Walk, Clitheroe BB7 2RA. Tel: 01200 425111. Designed by Hewetson Media. Tel: 07776 143005. Printed by Newsquest. Tel: 01273 544544. RIBBLE VALLEY

NewsThe newspaper of Ribble Valley Borough Council TOUR OF BRITAIN SPECIAL Summer 2015

THANK YOU TO OUR STAGE 2 SPONSORS:

PEDAL POWER The Tour is coming to town!

RIBBLE Valley is to co-host one promoting and developing the of the country’s biggest sporting area’s economic potential. events in the UK on Monday, There will be significant September 7. benefits from the tens of thousands of spectators expected The world’s top cyclists and tens of to descend on the two boroughs thousands of spectators will descend on for the event, bringing with them Ribble Valley and Pendle for Stage 2 of an economic boost of around the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain. £3million. 4-PAGE Stage 2 will see 20 of the world’s top The event will be broadcast cycling teams, including Olympic and internationally by 16 television world champions, and Tour de France channels across 139 territories in stage winners, power through Ribble Europe, Australia and the USA. SOUVENIR Valley and Pendle from Clitheroe to ITV will screen three hours of Colne. live coverage every day and a It is one of the most significant one-hour highlights SPECIAL projects to be undertaken by Ribble programme at night. Valley Borough Council in its 40-year Join us in giving the elite history, reflecting the ambitious and cyclists, their teams and confident way in which the council is visitors a warm Ribble Valley welcome. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk ii Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News Ribble Valley News Summer 2015 iii Stunning scenery will greet cyclists STAGE 2 of the 2015 Aviva Tour of Newton-in-Bowland and Slaidburn. Britain will showcase some of From there, the race heads for the Ribble Valley’s most breathtaking borough of Pendle via Gisburn and the scenery. A59, where it encounters the second of The race starts in Castle Street, three sprints, from West Marton to Clitheroe, at the foot of the town’s Barnoldswick, before the second King historic Norman castle, before heading of the Mountain at Earby. for the first King of the Mountain at the The race then heads for the third Nick o’ Pendle via Barrow,Wiswell and King of the Mountain at Barley, before Pendleton. briefly re-entering Ribble Valley at After dropping into Sabden, the race picturesque Downham. will head to Whalley, where the riders After passing through Downham and will turn left into King Street and head Chatburn, the race will enter Clitheroe for the famous hairpin bend opposite for the second time, powering down the Judge Walmsley pub in Billington, Chatburn Road for the last of the Stage which will bring the cyclists to a near 2 sprints, before leaving Clitheroe and standstill. entering Whalley for a second time, The race will then speed through before the final stretch to the finish in Wilpshire, Clayton-le-Dale and Colne, via Read, Simonstone, Fence Real benefits Salesbury Common – the site of the and Nelson. race’s first sprint – before crossing the Ribble Valley Borough Council leader A59 into Ribchester, then heading for Stuart Hirst said: “This is going to be a from the tour Longridge. must-see event for local people and The cyclists will power through the visitors. THE 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain is one of centre of Longridge, before heading for “Cyclists weaving through the the most significant projects to be Chipping via Inglewhite Road. After borough’s wild and beautiful landscape undertaken by Ribble Valley Borough Chipping, the race will take in the will make for a spectacular sight, and Council in its 40-year history, reflecting picturesque Trough of Bowland, we look forward to putting Ribble Valley the ambitious and confident way in including Whitewell, Dunsop Bridge, firmly on the international map.” which the council is promoting and developing the area’s economic potential. Not only will there be significant Recycled bikes to go to benefits from the tens of thousands of spectators expected to descend on Ribble Valley for Stage 2 of the Tour, but we anticipate an economic boost of Kenyan street children around £3million across the two host PUPILS from , Both groups of pupils were riding boroughs. mountain bikes that they have At 300 square miles, most of which is Clitheroe, and Pendle Vale College, refurbished and sprayed King of the designated an Area of Outstanding Colne, have refurbished discarded Mountain green, which are to be sent to Natural Beauty, Ribble Valley is one of the mountain bikes for street children in Glad’s House in Mombasa, which largest boroughs in the UK, with the Kenya as part of the legacy of Stage 2 smallest population – around 54,000. Its of the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain. provides education, health and social support to street children. two towns, Clitheroe and Longridge, and The youngsters joined Ribble Valley 44 villages are set in unspoilt countryside. Mayor Bridget Hilton at the Nick o’ Pendle Ribble Valley Mayor Bridget Hilton said: But stunning countryside is not Ribble to official launch the stage by lighting “The tens of thousands of spectators Valley’s only claim to fame, as Tour of green and white flares, the King of the expected to descend on Ribble Valley and Britain spectators will discover. The Mountain colours. Pendle for the Tour of Britain will bring borough is one of the UK’s premier They were led up , one of significant benefits, but the destinations for food and drink, award- three Stage 2 King of the Mountain refurbishment of mountain bikes by winning independent retailers, walking climbs, by Paul Oldham of Team Hope youngsters from Ribblesdale High School and cycling, and is a popular wedding and Ian Wilkinson of Team Raleigh GAC, and Pendle Vale College for street destination. where they exchanged school pennants children in Kenya is an particularly The Tour of Britain attracts a huge as a symbol of the partnership between delightful legacy of the event and I would following, as well as an international the two boroughs in hosting the top like to thank them for their splendid television audience, so is the ideal event. efforts.” showcase for Ribble Valley’s many attractions. I would encourage our towns and Log on to dedicated Tour website DID YOU KNOW? zThe Tour of Britain has four jerseys that are handed out to the villages to get involved in what I have no best cyclists in distinct disciplines, the most coveted being the A DEDICATED Stage 2 website has been launched There is also a dedicated yellow jersey, which is given to the leading overall rider. doubt will be a truly spectacular and zRoad cycle racing began as an organised sport in landmark event. featuring a host of information for cycling enthusiasts email address, and residents looking to keep abreast of the Tour of [email protected], for residents 1868 and the first cycling world championship was in We would like to thank our partners 1893. zThe 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain starts in Beaumaris, Anglesey, and sponsors for helping us host Stage 2 Britain. with specific concerns about the event, on Sunday, September 6. of the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain and look The web site, tourofbritainstage2.co.uk includes such as parking or road closures, or to request downloadable maps of the route, featuring spectator further information. zThe first winner of the Tour of Britain was Frenchman Robert forward to giving the elite cyclists, their zAt 154km, Stage 2 is the shortest stage, but the toughest, with zones and parking, information about the race and how As Ribble Valley News went to press, spectator Batot in 1945, when the race was known as the Victory teams and visitors a warm Ribble Valley Marathon. many uphill sections and King of the Mountain climbs at Pendle welcome. businesses and schools can get involved, and road zones had been finalised for the Judge Walmsley at closures. Billington,Whalley Arms at Whalley and Wellsprings Hill, Barley and Earby. zSince the race was rebranded the Tour of Britain in 2004, the Stuart Hirst, Leader, The web site will be continually updated over the Inn at the Nick o’ Pendle, but others are under only British winner has been Sir Bradley Wiggins riding for Team zParticipants in the Tour of Britain will cycle a mammoth 760 Ribble Valley Borough Council summer months as further information becomes negotiation and will be publicised as soon as details available. become available. Sky in 2013. miles in eight days. iv Summer 2015 Ribble Valley News

Cyclists urged Saddle up for summer as to tackle the Gisburn Trail

TOUR enthusiasts are invited to get on their bikes activities get under way at a premier cycling trail in Gisburn Forest. The Gisburn Forest Bike AS tour fever wheels into Ribble Valley, local zSUMMER OF FUN: Trail, funded by Ribble youngsters are invited to get on their bikes for a Valley Borough Council and host of summer activities. From the left are Phoebe Bolton, Ruby the Ribble Valley Strategic Ribble Valley Borough Council has launched its Bolton and Louise Partnership, includes an 2015 summer activities booklet listing six weeks of Farquhar easy eight-kilometre “blue” sports, arts and crafts for youngsters. The courses, being offered in conjunction with route for families and Lancashire County Council, the Grand and the beginners, and a 22- Ribble Valley Children’s Trust, will take place at kilometre “red” course for venues throughout the borough, including village more experienced and halls, primary schools, libraries, the Ribble Valley expert cyclists. Tennis Centre, Longridge Sports and Arts Centre, The trails, which are set Platform Gallery and Visitor Information Centre, the against the stunning Grand, Roefield Leisure Centre, Ribblesdale Pool backdrop of the Forest of and . Bowland Area of The 24-page booklet features dozens of activities Outstanding Natural on offer over the summer months, including archery, arts and crafts, body zorbing, climbing, dance and Beauty, include tricky drama, football, netball, orienteering, singing, downhill and boardwalk storytelling, street dance, skateboarding and sections and offer fine views swimming. over the nearby Stocks Ribble Valley Borough Council’s sports Reservoir. development officer, Peter Fletcher, said: “This The trails were made year's summer activities booklet is the most possible by funding from comprehensive yet, featuring a bumper crop of Sport England, the Forest of activities for young people. Bowland Area of “From body zorbing to zumba, there’s no need for Outstanding Natural boredom in Ribble Valley during the summer months, and with Tour fever expected to wheel into Beauty, Ribble Valley the borough towards the end of August there’s never Borough Council, the Ribble been a better time to get out and get active. Valley Strategic Partnership, “We are grateful to the fantastic venues and United Utilities and the dedicated volunteers, who have joined forces to Forestry Commission. make these activities possible.” Mark Beveridge, Ribble The booklet is available from the Ribble Valley Valley Borough Council’s Borough Council Offices in Church Walk, Clitheroe, head of cultural and leisure or ribblevalley.gov.uk. services, said: "The Gisburn Forest Bike Trail offers a great sporting experience to all cyclists, from thrill- Half-price orienteering maps during Tour seekers and fitness enthusiasts, to families AN orienteering course at in many well-known features enjoying an active day out. zJUST THE TICKET: Connor Clitheroe Castle could and some that are not so well- “The trail is one of the Atherton and Zara Blackledge prove just the ticket for known. UK’s premier outdoor families over the summer Ribble Valley Borough cycling facilities and offers Council’s sports development months. the perfect opportunity for officer, Peter Fletcher, said: cyclists to make the most of And maps for the popular “Orienteering is a great sport Tour weekend.” course are up for grabs for half for runners, joggers and price over Tour weekend. walkers who want to improve Further details about the Orienteering, the outdoor their navigation skills, or for Gisburn Forest Bike Trail are adventure sport that exercises anyone who loves the outdoors. available from the Clitheroe the mind and body, is gaining “It is suitable for all ages and Visitor Information Centre popularity across the UK. fitness levels, families, the on 01200 425566. The aim is to navigate in elderly and those with sequence between points restricted mobility, and anyone marked on a map. It does not who wants to get more active, matter how young, old or fit as well as groups and team- you are, as you can run, walk building. or jog the course at your own “The castle grounds and pace. parkland are rich and varied, The Clitheroe Castle course and a fantastic venue for has several routes ranging from orienteering.” easy with seven points to Maps costing £2 are difficult with 16 points, available from the Clitheroe including a route that is fully Visitor Information Centre, or accessible with eight points. £1 during Tour of Britain The course covers the whole weekend, Saturday, September of the castle grounds and takes 5, and Sunday, September 6. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk

Published by Ribble Valley Borough Council, Church Walk, Clitheroe BB7 2RA. Tel: 01200 425111. Designed by Hewetson Media. Tel: 07776 143005. Printed by Newsquest. Tel: 01273 544544.