NewsThe newspaper of Ribble Valley Borough Council 40th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL Spring 2014

A LOAF of bread cost 15p and a by a three-day week, two general with the smallest population: Join us for a journey through 40 gallon of petrol set you back 42p. elections and the biggest shake- 53,000 residents. successful years of the borough of The first McDonalds opened in up in local government for over a The borough would go on to Ribble Valley. , the BBC launched century. become one of the most zOur thanks go to the Ceefax and Abba won the The reorganisation saw the successful in the country, with Advertiser and Times for access Eurovision Song Contest with country divided into ‘districts,’ high customer satisfaction and to its archives and former staff Waterloo, while the two Robbies – one of which, Ribble Valley, at 225 low crimes rates, and at the for sharing their memories Williams and Savage – were born. square miles, was the largest forefront of several nationally- during the compilation of this The year 1974 was also marked gegraphically in , but acclaimed projects. supplement. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk ii Spring 2014 Ribble Valley News Ribble Valley News Spring 2014 iii ATTLE being driven to market through the centre of Clitheroe was a regular sight when CRibble Valley Borough Council opened for business in 1974 And one of the most far-reaching tasks facing the new council was the relocation of the town centre cattle market, or auction mart, and redevelopment of the vacant site. An initial scheme attracted fierce opposition from town traders and a revised version featuring 39 market cabins and bullring, 71-space car park and 20 flats, eventually went ahead in 1994, 15 years after the original scheme featuring of vision and leadership underground parking and a community centre was put 40 years forward. The scheme saw the auction mart and several haulage Following lobbying by the council, the North West Water operations move to the Salthill Industrial Estate, which Authority announced in 1982 that the Ribble would be the subsequently became a hub of commercial and light industrial first river in Lancashire to have a radar flood warning system. activity. It is now the site of the council’s direct works depot, Ribble Valley Borough Council also replaced the sewerage as well as a flagship waste transfer station that opened in 2006 system in several key areas of Clitheroe, including the and has set the pace for waste management in Lancashire ever installation of the largest ‘thrust bored tunnel’ in the country since. at Woone Lane, which substantially reduced the risk of future The redevelopment facilitated the decommissioning of the flooding. former Clitheroe Gasworks in a groundbreaking £800,000 has dominated the Ribble Valley skyline project led by the council and funded by the Department of since its construction in the 12th Century by Robert de Lacy the Environment. to protect the administrative centre of his vast estates and The 14-cornered gasholder was so toxic that it rotted the housed the office of the council’s first chief executive, Michael removal equipment and the topsoil so contaminated that a Jackson. cutting-edge microbiological process was used to reclaim the The castle was the subject of a £3.5million refurbishment site.The so-called superbugs broke down the contamination spearheaded by the council in partnership with the Heritage in 12 months, instead of 1,000 years, and the project became Lottery Fund and several public and private sector partners nationally acclaimed, as well as the first reclaimed gasholder that saw a glass atrium linking the museum and North West site in the country to be used for much-needed affordable Sound Archives on two levels, a café, exhibition space, housing at Black Lane Croft. interactive display facilities, education suite and several multi- Ribble Valley Borough Council also spearheaded the media exhibitions depicting the history of Ribble Valley. redevelopment of the nearby semi-derelict Clitheroe Rail The scheme, officially opened by His Royal Highnesss the Station, following an impressive campaign by local rail Duke of Gloucester in 2009, went on to win a raft of heritage enthusiasts to have the Clitheroe to Manchester line and tourism awards. reopened. And when it comes to the provision of sport and recreation The station building was turned into a multi-award-winning facilities Ribble Valley Borough Council has also been a travel hub and art gallery, called the winner. and Platform Gallery, which was seen as a triumph for urban The council led a community campaign for a £200,000 revitalisation and received an official opening by His Royal synthetic sports pitch next to Longridge Sports Centre that Highness Prince Charles in 2002. was officially opened by international hockey player Val The new Clitheroe Market went on to house the Robinson in 1995. In 2004, it funded a £120,000 zThe old Clitheroe Cattle Market zFlooding at Riverside Estate, Low Moor zThe Clitheroe Gasworks demolition monitoring station for Ribble Valley’s CCTV system, refurbishment of Longridge Sports Centre, including new revamped in 2003 with a £500,000 grant from the Home changing rooms, improvements to the reception, disabled Office.The scheme was the first of many projects led by the access and a fitness room. And in 2008 Longridge Civic Hall then Ribble Valley Crime and Disorder Reduction opened a community hub featuring a children’s centre and Partnership, now the Ribble Valley Community Safety state-of-the-art gym thanks to a £195,000 grant from Ribble Partnership, which is chaired by Ribble Valley Borough Valley Borough Council. Council. Ribble Valley Borough Council’s successful sports and arts Many successful community safety initiatives later, Ribble excellence grants scheme has supported numerous young Valley is the second safest place in the UK, according to athletes and performance artists at county and national level Government statistics. since being launched as the recreation grants scheme at the Ribble Valley Borough Council was also at the forefront of council’s inception in 1974. flood defence measures at the in Low Moor. The scheme’s many recipients include Olympic medallists The worst floods in living memory hit the Riverside Samantha Murray and Jon Schofield (pictured left), who Estate at Low Moor received a triumphant homecoming following their success at and Taylor Street London 2012. during two Samantha, of West Bradford, who won the silver medal in days of the modern pentathlon, and Jon, who took bronze in the torrential canoe sprint, alongside his kayaking partner, Liam Heath, rain in October thanked Ribble Valley Borough Council for playing a part in 1980 that saw their success. the Ribble rise Thrifty Ribble Valley Borough Council has achieved a great by 12ft in some deal with the lowest council tax in Lancashire. places. This year, it announced a council tax freeze without cuts in jobs or services for the fifth year running, zThe new Clitheroe Market zThe semi-derelict Clitheroe Rail Station zA Royal opening for the £3.5million Clitheroe Castle Museum despite a 12 per cent reduction in Government grants. Council leader Stuart Hirst praised the dedication and hard work of council staff and councillors for delivering efficient and cost- effective services in difficult times. He said: “Like all other local authorities, Ribble Valley Borough Council has seen a significant reduction in financial support from the Government. “There have been announcements from some neighbouring authorities about substantial redundancies, but our budget proposals for the coming year do not envisage any compulsory redundancies or reduction in services, while maintaining support for charitable and voluntary organisations. “Our sound financial position is down to strong financial discipline, prudent management and a committed and dedicated workforce, and I would like to pay tribute to staff and councillors, past and present, for delivering efficient, cost-effective and first-class services over the last 40 years.” zThe council's Salthill Depot and flagship waste transfer station zMuch-needed affordable housing at Black Lane Croft zThe new-look Clitheroe Interchange and Platform Gallery iv Spring 2014 Ribble Valley News Historic merger of proud towns and villages A MERGER of proud towns and villages was how the new Creation of new Ribble Valley District Council, later to be called Ribble Valley borough brought Borough Council, was described. local government Ribble Valley was formed on April 1 1974 under the 1972 ‘closer to people’ Local Government Act, which saw the country divided into people.’ Another was to pool ‘districts.’ resources and make it more At 225 square miles, the new economically viable. district was the largest The new council boasted 38 geographically in Lancashire, councillors and eight committees: stretching from Mellor in the policy and resources, liaison, south to Easington in the north, personnel, planning and Longridge in the west to Horton transportation, recreation and and Middop in the east, but had leisure, housing, public works and the smallest population: 53,000 health, finance and general £1m HQ brought services under one roof residents. purposes. ONE of the first problems facing After much discussion, it was three interview rooms, two payments Commenting in the Clitheroe It was a merger of the the new Ribble Valley Borough decided to construct the new office areas, a public IT point allowing public municipal borough of Clitheroe, Advertiser and Times on April 4 block at Mytton House in Church access to the internet and new signage. Longridge urban district, 1974, the council’s first chief Council was to find a home. Clitheroe rural district, parts of executive, Michael Jackson, said: Initially, the authority’s various Street, which at the time housed the Ribble Valley Borough Council chief , Burnley and Preston “We have to make people aware departments were scattered borough treasurer’s department. executive Marshal Scott said: “The rural districts, and the Bowland of the services we will be throughout Clitheroe, with the chief The new offices were not without council has always focused on rural district from the West Riding providing.There is tremendous executive based at Clitheroe Castle. controversy, costing just under delivering the best possible services to of Yorkshire, hence the inclusion scope for providing services if This meant memoranda and £1million and taking a year to build, its customers and ensuring those people want them and a lot of of the Red Rose of Lancaster and paperwork had to be shunted from but they eventually opened in 1980, services are accessible. White Rose of York on the new Government assistance for district office to office, while overheads for where they have remained to this day. “These new-look reception at the council's coat of arms. councils willing to go out and get One of the principle reasons for it.” heating and lighting were inflated. Last year, the offices underwent their council offices is helping us remain a the reorganisation was to relax And over the following 40 years Members of the public also had the first refurbishment, featuring a new- well-managed authority providing control from Whitehall and bring that is precisely what Ribble Valley inconvenience of walking between look reception, customer service efficient services based on identified local government ‘closer to the Borough Council has done. offices if referred to other departments. centre, three customer service desks, customer needs.” A ‘true gent’who A real sensebecame of our‘belonging’ first CE LOCAL government has administration – a process already e-democracy assumes growing given us ancient administrative gathering momentum in Scotland importance. terms still in modern use, such and Wales. Councils will also need to as the Saxon ‘borough’ and Within that process, however, I balance an increasingly sense a growing policy shift sophisticated and knowledge Norman ‘county.’ towards large unitary authorities, based local economy, deal with Modern local government, which will mean fewer councils growing demand from younger however, is overwhelmingly a 19th serving a wider area, with fewer and older residents for affordable Century Government creation, councillors and employees, as housing, and draw upon the civic along with the many reforms and councils commission more and energies of local communities that reorganisations that have occurred deliver less. will need to think differently about with depressing regularity ever Absorption within a regional their role – not just as consumers since, and still threaten us today. ‘super council’ would be of public services, but as partners And therein lies the main clue disastrous for Ribble Valley and I in providing them. as to what the next 40 years may fear the years ahead will see us The building of resilient and hold. He who pays the piper calls having to argue our case to supportive local communities the tune and as long as the remain a distinct borough innovating local solutions to local Government remains the vigorously, as local people will problems will be a serious public paymaster the freedom to act for undoubtedly wish. policy objective. local communities is likely to Whatever the configuration, the By any yardstick Ribble Valley remain constrained, leading to a future challenge will be to match has been a resounding success fractured and resentful diminishing resources with over the last 40 years and the relationship – an example of growing demands. sense of belonging is rightly a which we have recently seen in The UK population is set to source of civic pride within the Ribble Valley in terms of planning exceed 80million in the next 40 borough – a pride which, I am policy. years, with a third over the age of sure, will be as strong and Such tensions are not 65, a profile that will be higher in undiminished in 40 years as it is sustainable and I believe and hope Ribble Valley. Communication now. we can look forward to a genuine technology will drive significant process of devolution to an changes in the relationship Stuart Hirst, Leader, independently funded local between citizen and council, as Ribble Valley Borough Council 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 INSIDE „Tree scheme for WW1 dead p3 „Affordable bungalows p5 „Walking group anniversary p6 „Launch of new club hub p8 NewsThe newspaper of Ribble Valley Borough Council 40th ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL Spring 2014 A toast to 40 years of change and innovation THE borough of Ribble Valley satisfaction rates, low crimes rates from the Government. efficient, cost-effective and first- commemorates its 40th and at the forefront of several “There have been class services over the last 40 anniversary on April 1 2014. nationally-acclaimed projects. announcements from some years.” The council came into being in And all this has been achieved neighbouring authorities about Councillor Hirst is pictured 1974 following the biggest shake- with the lowest council tax rate in substantial redundancies, but our right, with (from the left) the up in local government for over a Lancashire and one of the lowest budget proposals for the coming council’s director of community century. rates in the UK. year do not envisage any services, John Heap, director of The reorganisation saw the Council leader Stuart Hirst compulsory redundancies or resources Jane Pearson, chief country divided into ‘districts,’ one praised the dedication and hard reduction in services, while executive Marshal Scott and of which, Ribble Valley, at 225 work of council staff and maintaining support for charitable deputy mayor Michael Ranson, square miles, was the largest councillors for delivering efficient and voluntary organisations. with (front) Ribble Valley Mayor geographically in Lancashire, but and cost-effective services year “Our sound financial position is and Mayoress Richard Sherras and with the smallest population: after year. down to prudent management and Lynne Pate. 53,000 residents. He said: “Like all other local a committed and dedicated See our special ‘wraparound’ The borough has gone on to authorities, Ribble Valley Borough workforce and I would like to pay supplement for a journey through become one of the most successful Council has seen a significant tribute to staff and councillors, 40 successful years of the borough in the UK, with high customer reduction in financial support past and present, for delivering of Ribble Valley. Continental Streamlined collections to market ‘is a first’ for town SOME of the finest foods and artisan products in Europe will be up for boost paper recyling rates grabs in Clitheroe this month, when the town hosts its first continental RIBBLE Valley’s waste paper planet, but also to contribute market. Geraud Markets, the UK’s leading collection service has been towards the cost of providing the zSACK SAVVY: streamlined in a bid to boost service through income generated Ribble Valley operator of specialist markets, will occupy the borough’s recycling rates. from the sale of the paper and Borough Council the Clitheroe Market Car Park for three From March 3, waste paper and cardboard.” refuse loader Dean days from Thursday, April 17, to Saturday, cardboard is being collected on the The schedules show whether Golding April 19. same day as blue or green wheeled white sacks will be collected on the Gerraud Markets manages 55 bins. same day as blue or green wheeled continental markets across the country, as Waste paper will be collected bins.The collection days and well as the famous Covent Garden collection points remain from households in the north of Sunday Market, and over 50 stallholders the borough on the same day as unchanged, and all householders have to do is leave their white sack from across Europe are expected to take green wheeled bins and in the part in the three-day bonanza. south of the borough on the same out with the relevant wheeled bin. Ribble Valley Borough Council leader day as blue wheeled bins. UK households produce over The changes are outlined in 30million tonnes of waste a year, of Stuart Hirst said: "Clitheroe is famed for its collection schedules delivered to which around 40 per cent is independent retailers and now we have households in March and available recycled, compared to 70 per cent the opportunity to launch this year’s from the Council Offices. in other European countries. summer season with a fantastic shopping Ribble Valley Borough Council Recycling conserves raw experience that will put Clitheroe even took its popular ‘white sack’ materials and protects natural more firmly on the North West’s retail collection of waste paper and habitats, reduces the need for map.” cardboard in-house in July last year mining, quarrying and logging, and The market will feature fine foods, refining and processing raw in a drive to increase efficiency and including French charcuterie, continental boost recycling rates. materials, all of which create cheeses, German sausages, garlic and Robert Thompson, chairman of substantial air and water pollution. the council's community services Households can check whether vegetables, as well as artisan items, such committee, said: "The white sack their waste paper and cardboard as handmade jewellery and leather goods. service has been valued by local will be collected on a “blue week” Clitheroe Market is also expected to residents for many years, but by or “green week” at open on the Friday, which is not a normal aligning it with the rest of our ribblevalley.gov.uk. market day, while the Friday flea market refuse collection service we hope to Anyone needing a white sack for will operate as normal. make it easier to use, as well as the collection of waste paper and zDon’t forget the Clitheroe Food increase participation rates. cardboard or a new collection Festival takes place on Saturday, "We aim to collect as much waste schedule is asked to phone Ribble August 9, featuring Lancashire’s finest paper and card as possible, not Valley Borough Council on 01200 food producers. only because it helps to protect the 425111. Why not visit us on the web? www.ribblevalley.gov.uk 2 Spring 2014 Ribble Valley News

zTAKING THE LEAD: Ribble Council leader’s New ‘clean up’orders to keep Valley Borough Council dog message rogue dog owners in check warden Adele Geraghty NEW orders requiring Ribble becoming law by the summer. Tax is frozen Valley dog owners to clean up They will require pet owners to after their pets and keep them remove dog faeces from public for fifth year under control in public are on the land, including footpaths and cards. fields, keep their dogs on leads I AM delighted that Ribble Valley Borough Council The dog control orders will see when instructed to do so by a dog has frozen its council tax for the fifth year running. pet owners face fines of up to enforcement officer and prohibit At £140.69 on a Band D property, Ribble £1,000 in a magistrates’ court or dogs from sports pitches, playing Valley’s share of the council tax will remain the fixed penalty notices of at least fields and children’s playgrounds. lowest in Lancashire and one of the lowest in the UK. As national economic pressures continue to £50 for anti-social pet behaviour. Ribble Valley Borough Council’s erode Government funding, which is an integral Five orders have been head of environmental health, no longer be able to use Dog faeces take two months to part of our income stream, the budget process approved in principle by the James Russell, said: “Complaints ignorance as an excuse for not break down and can give humans has become a demanding and detailed exercise. council’s community services about dog issues are the second controlling their pets and the a number of infections, including Over the last five years, while Ribble Valley’s committee following the ongoing highest received by the council message is simple: The days of toxocariasis, which can cause share of the council tax has remained frozen, the problem of dog poop in public each year and the new orders will allowing dogs to foul in public are breathing difficulties, red and council’s funding from Government has places, particularly on playing enable us to deal with these over, so pick up your pet mess painful eyes, or clouded vision, decreased by over £1.5million. fields. matters more effectively. everywhere, every time.” particularly in young people. Despite this, careful cost control and sound The orders have been subject “They will also give our dog Ribble Valley Borough Council To report dog fouling or for financial planning, along with planned and to public consultation and will go enforcement officers greater receives over 200 complaints further information, contact prudent use of reserves and new income streams, back to committee for final powers to deal with offenders. about dog fouling and spends Ribble Valley Borough Council on has enabled the council to maintain core services consideration with a view to “Irresponsible dog owners will £30,000 disposing of it each year. 01200 425111. at satisfaction levels averaging over 75 per cent, one of the highest in the North West. We should not, however, underestimate the challenges ahead. We know that our grant in 2015/16 will decrease even further and we are starting budget preparations immediately to deal with this. We’ve got food hygiene Increased resources National planning policy continues to make an unprecedented demand on our efforts and we are severely constrained by policy requirements. The examination in public of our Core Strategy licked, says Which? probe has now closed and the Planning Inspectorate has suggested a number of amendments. Upon Ribble Valley Borough Council zFIRST FOR FOOD HYGIENE: Ribble FOOD hygiene in Ribble Valley completion of the additional work we fully is among the best in the country leader Stuart Hirst said: “Ribble anticipate its adoption within months. Valley Borough Council environmental health technician Louise Hilton-Knott according to a national Valley has some of the best food This remains a key objective and will afford us and Katie Winstanley, of Clitheroe’s investigation. outlets and producers in the the single most important tool in controlling the five-star sandwich shop, Megabites A Which? report has revealed a country, and a deserved reputation unwanted and excessive flow of housing significant variation in food hygiene as a premier food destination. applications. across the UK. “The majority of the borough’s Finance and planning are key issues for us, and But the report has placed Ribble food businesses have high standards regrettably sometimes overshadow the council’s Valley Borough Council seventh in of hygiene and we are delighted that ongoing excellent work in many other areas. the country for food hygiene the standards being exacted by our The council was recently praised by the enforcement. food safety team have been Government for its refuse collection service. The The Which? research found that recognised in this investigation.” Government’s guidance on weekly refuse one in three high and medium-risk The investigation found that collections, or “bin bible,”cites Ribble Valley as an food businesses in some areas of the council’s food safety team inspected example of best practice. country were not complying with 99.3 per cent of the borough’s food Our residents tell us that they value and food hygiene requirements. establishments requiring inspection in 2013, 97 per cent of which were appreciate weekly collections of non-recyclable The investigation was based on awarded a food hygiene rating of waste and we are delighted that the Government data submitted to the Food Standards Agency in 2013 by the three stars or above. has recognised our achievements. Food premises in Ribble Valley, As you can see on this page food hygiene in UK’s 395 local authorities. Each authority was ranked on including restaurants, cafes, Ribble Valley is also among the best in the takeaways, sandwich shops, food country according to a national investigation. SAFETY SPOT three criteria: the proportion of premises ranked as high or retailers and supermarkets, are rated A Which? report has placed Ribble Valley “Don’t wash your chicken”is the medium risk broadly from five to zero for food hygiene. Borough Council seventh in the country for food message behind this year’s Food compliant with food They are assessed on a range of hygiene enforcement. Safety Week from June 16 to 22. The campaign will see consumers hygiene requirements, the criteria, including the preparation, The report found that the council’s food safety advised on what they can do to percentage of premises yet cooking, re-heating, cooling and team inspected 99.3 per cent of the borough’s protect themselves and their to receive a risk rating and storage of food. Food hygiene food establishments requiring inspection in 2013, families from food poisoning the proportion of inspections ratings are displayed on distinctive 97 per cent of which were awarded a food caused by handling required but not carried out by green and black stickers on windows hygiene rating of three stars or above. chicken. food hygiene inspectors. and doors or can be found at Ribble Valley has some of the best food outlets ribblevalley.gov.uk. and producers in the country and a deserved reputation as a premier food destination. Voters set to go to the polls as Euro elections loom RIBBLE Valley goes to the polls in European proxy vote applications must be made by European Commission. parliamentary elections on Thursday, May 22. Wednesday, May 14. Emergency proxy votes are Voting is voluntary in most European The notice of poll and list of candidates will be available until 5pm on polling day. Parliament member states, including the UK, but published on Ribble Valley Borough Council’s web European parliamentary elections are the second compulsory in Belgium, Cyprus, Greece and site by 4pm on Friday, April 25. biggest democratic exercise in the world, with Luxembourg. zStuart Hirst, Residents who want to vote must be registered over 400 million people expected to cast a vote. Anyone who is not a registered elector or has Leader, as an elector by Wednesday, May 7, which is also The 751 MEPs will set the course of European recently moved into the area and would like to Ribble Valley the deadline for new postal vote applications, or policy for the next five years and elect the leader vote is asked to contact the council’s elections Borough Council changes to existing proxy or postal votes. New of the European Union's executive body, the team on 01200 414411. Ribble Valley News Spring 2014 3 Council tax freeze ‘won’t Trees planted to honour the fallen of Great War AN ambitious scheme to plant a tree in who lived, fought and died in the First World hit services’ each of Ribble Valley's 35 parishes in War. memory of the borough's First World War Councillor Ranson (pictured), who lost a RIBBLE Valley Borough Council fallen has been launched. great-uncle in the war, said: "We are all has announced a council tax The Great Wood scheme will see oak trees connected to the First World War, through our freeze without cuts in jobs or bearing plaques in memory of the hundreds of family history, the fallen in our local communities, or its long-term impact on services for the fifth year young Ribble Valley men who lost their lives during the Great War planted throughout the society. running. borough. “I am honoured and humbled to be leading The council has frozen council Ribble Valley Deputy Mayor Michael this important campaign to remember Ribble tax without the need for Ranson plans to plant the commemorative Valley’s fallen during my year as mayor.” compulsory redundancies or trees throughout his mayoral year, which starts The First World War was a turning point in service cuts, despite an 12 per on May 13. world history, claiming the lives of 16million cent reduction in Government Schoolchildren from each parish will be people across the world and having a huge grants. Support for charities and involved in the planting and given poppy and impact on those who experienced it. voluntary organisations will also wildflower seeds for commemorative gardens Millions of men fought on land, at sea and in the air, with modern weapons causing mass be maintained. at their schools. casualties. The council’s 2014/15 budget The 100th anniversary of Britain’s involvement in the First World War takes place As Ribble Valley did not exist until 1974, means Ribble Valley Borough on Monday, August 4, and will herald precise records of the number of fallen in the Council’s share of the council tax commemorative events throughout the borough do not exist, but it is believed to be on a Band D property will remain country. around 1,000. at £140.69, the lowest in From 2014 until the 100th anniversary of Ribble Valley will host numerous First World Lancashire and one of the lowest the official ceasefire, or Armistice Day, on War commemorative events over the coming in the country. November 11 2018, communities across the year and further details will be available in due And council leader Stuart Hirst world will come together to remember those course at www.ribblevalley.gov.uk. has praised the dedication and hard work of council staff and councillors for delivering efficient and cost-effective services in difficult times. He said: “I am very pleased that Ribble Valley’s share of the Little Green Bus has a new council tax is to be frozen and core services protected for the fifth successive year. “This has been achieved despite a reduction in Government funding of 12 per set of wheels cent, a total of 47 per cent since 2010. A DOOR-TO-DOOR bus vital services and get their essential “Ribble Valley has the lowest service that prevents elderly and weekly shopping. council tax in Lancashire and one vulnerable Ribble Valley The scheme's manager, Donna of the lowest in the country, residents from becoming Atkinson, said: "Our drivers are marvellous individuals, who which is a significant "prisoners in their own homes" volunteer their time to help us assist achievement built on many years has a new set of wheels thanks people who, without our services, of detailed financial planning. to cash from the borough would be prisoners in their own “I am grateful to councillors council. homes. and staff for their dedication and The Little Green Bus, so-called "Our newest project is an assisted commitment, and continuing to because of its environmental shopping and access to services deliver efficient and cost- credentials, has a new "blue" scheme that supports people with effective services in difficult Mercedes Sprinter thanks to £6,200 illnesses, such as dementia, allowing zALL ABOARD: Ribble Valley times.” from Ribble Valley Borough Council them to use transport that is familiar Mayor Richard Sherras Council tax bills include and additional cash from Ribble to them and staffed by specially- launches the Little Green Bus Valley Homes, the Yorkshire precepts from Lancashire County trained volunteers. Building Society and Lancashire “We are extremely grateful to large rural community, where many travel to over 300 vulnerable Council, Lancashire Constabulary, County Council. Ribble Valley Borough Council and elderly and vulnerable residents live residents and 50 community groups. Lancashire Fire and Rescue The Little Green Bus provides all our sponsors for their generosity." in isolation, and we are delighted to It is looking for additional volunteers Service and parishes. Full details door-to-door transport for elderly The new bus was launched by support this scheme.” and if you would like to help as a are available at and vulnerable residents via fully- Ribble Valley Mayor Richard The Little Green Bus, started four bus or car driver, or shopping and www.ribblevalley.gov.uk. accessible minibuses and a volunteer Sherras, who added: "The Little years ago, now has five buses and 27 access to services assistant, contact car scheme, enabling them to access Green Bus is a vital lifeline in such a volunteer drivers offering affordable Little Green Bus on 01200 444484.

Opposition leader’s message Local knowledge is always better than Whitehall diktat JUST before Christmas, the Government that how money is saved in London is totally plummeted. announced that it was not going to introduce different from Lancashire and how money is saved On top of all this have been the many and legislation on how local authorities should enforce in Richmond is totally different from Ribble Valley. varied changes over the years to the planning parking regulations. But this Government is no different from any regime. How big an effect this legislation would have other. When John Prescott was the minister in The fact is, local authorities and their elected had on Ribble Valley is debateable, but it does charge of local government he gave local representatives have a far greater understanding highlight a bigger issue. government services more targets than the of what is going on in their areas than Successive governments seem to think they Pentagon. Government ministers or Whitehall mandarins know how to deliver local services better than the The Government before that devised and, though we might not get it right every time, local authorities that have to deliver them. compulsory competitive tendering, meaning local knowledge is far better than Whitehall diktat. A year or so ago, Secretary of State Eric Pickles councils had to put services out to auction to the published a dossier on how he thought councils lowest bidder. Unfortunately, while savings were Allan Knox, Leader of the Opposition, should make savings, yet it is evident to anyone made, far too often the quality of the service Ribble Valley Borough Council 4 Spring 2014 Ribble Valley News Ribbl Valley News Spring 2014 5

RIBBLE Valley is the safest place in Lancashire and one of the safest in 1,000 residents were recorded in the borough last year, significantly the UK. below the national average and the lowest in Lancashire. And behind the scenes a great deal of hard work is going on to Ribble Valley councillor Kevin Horkin, the partnership’s chairman, ‘Shared’bungalows up ensure this remains the case. said: “Thanks to some fantastically innovative work on a shoestring Ribble Valley Borough Council chairs the Ribble Valley Community budget the partnership and its members have contributed for grabs in Clitheroe Safety Partnership, which in 2005 was tasked with reducing crime by significantly to a reduction in crime in Ribble Valley in recent years.” 13.5 per cent. Read on to find out how the partnership and its members are RIBBLE Valley's first ever shared ownership accommodation to Since then, reported crime in Ribble Valley has fallen by over 35 per working hard to ensure Ribble Valley remains one of the safest places ownership bungalows are up for Clitheroe.” grabs at a picturesque Rachel O’Conner, St Vincent’s cent and recent Government figures show that 28 crimes for every in the UK. development overlooking the River Housing Association’s Ribble in Clitheroe. development manager, added: Free water chasers on tap to support burgeoning nightlife Three two-bedroom bungalows “Low Moor Gardens is a superb are available on a part-buy-part- development with fantastic views rent basis at Low Moor Gardens, of the River Ribble and . Lock it up, along with three two-bedroom “We are delighted to be a houses, three three-bedroom partner in this scheme that will warn police houses and a four-bedroom house. release much-needed affordable The homes are being developed properties into the housing MOTORISTS in Ribble Valley are being Bars to serve up by Taylor Wimpey in association market.” warned to lock their vehicles after a with Ribble Valley Borough Council House prices in Ribble Valley are spate of thefts from insecure cars and and St Vincent’s Housing way above the national average vans. Association. and first-time buyers are being Recent figures have revealed that zSAFETY ON TAP: Kevin Horkin, chairman And St Vincent’s is hosting an forced out of the communities almost 70 per cent of thefts from of the Ribble Valley Community Safety open day at the development on their families have lived in for vehicles in the borough last year – 180 Partnership, and Peter Ellis, licensee at Tuesday, April 29, from 4 to 7pm. generations. – were from those that were unlocked. new ‘safe’glasses the White Lion, Clitheroe The properties have gardens and There is also a dearth of Kevin Horkin, chairman of the off-road parking, making them accommodation suitable for young Ribble Valley Community Safety WATER chasers and ‘safe’ Over 3,000 of the glasses, enjoyable experience. Lancashire Partnership Against ideal for families or mature single people and the elderly. Partnership, said: "Of the reported glasses are on offer to town featuring the message, Drink "The polycarbonate glasses are Crime, Lancashire Trading residents in an area where Ribble Valley Borough Council is thefts from cars and vans, nearly centre revellers as part of a new sensibly and enjoy your night! are indestructible and will strengthen the Standards and Public Health three-quarters were from vehicles that affordable housing is particularly at the forefront of several housing scheme to support Clitheroe's being handed out to hostelries across perception of Ribble Valley as a safe Lancashire, is part of the Ribble had been left unlocked. Council hosts scarce. initiatives, from the provision of the borough. place in which to enjoy a night out. Valley Nighttime Economy Alcohol burgeoning nightlife. And the shared ownership affordable properties in “Thieves are targeting unlocked And posters featuring the message, "We will also be encouraging Harm Reduction Plan. Clitheroe is fast becoming a bungalows start at just £75,000 for partnership with housing vehicles to steal phones, satnavs, Tap water's on the house, will be partygoers to drink water chasers, The plan also includes spot checks tablet devices and laptop computers. fashionable nightspot, attracting a 50 per cent share. associations and developers, to partygoers from as far afield as displayed prominently in all licensed which go some way to mitigating the on licensed premises to ensure they “We have also had reports of cars Colin Hirst, head of housing and cutting-edge energy efficiency. Preston and Blackburn to its trendy premises. effects of alcohol and are are not selling alcohol to children or forum on web being entered to take small change or regeneration at Ribble Valley Other current affordable housing wine bars and gastro-pubs. Kevin Horkin, chairman of the commonplace in many European people who are drunk and the sports bags, while thieves are Now drinkers are to be offered Ribble Valley Community Safety countries. Matthew Alston Project, which was Borough Council, said: “The schemes include Ribble Meadows targeting vans to steal power tools or drinks in indestructible Partnership, which helped to fund "We will be working with licensed set up in 2011 in memory of 18- provision of affordable housing is in Henthorn Road, Clitheroe; copper pipe. polycarbonate glasses and free water the scheme, said: "Clitheroe is fast premises to ensure posters year-old Clitheroe Royal Grammar safety issues one of the biggest challenges Romans Crossing in Longridge, “Locking vehicles can go a long way chasers in a drive to strengthen becoming the place to be, attracting promoting the provision of free tap School pupil Matthew Alston, who facing the council and affordable Black Hill View in Sabden and in deterring these opportunistic Ribble Valley's reputation as a vibrant partygoers from across East water are displayed prominently." died in a car crash the morning after bungalows and four-bedroom Church Raike in Chipping. thieves and ensuring Ribble Valley and safe night time destination. Lancashire looking for a safe and The scheme, also funded by the he had been drinking. INTERNET safety was the subject of a conference houses are almost non-existent. Anyone looking for an affordable remains one of the safest places in the hosted by Ribble Valley Borough Council. "We are working closely with property should contact Ribble UK.” The event, attended by over 50 youngsters, their parents housing associations to address Valley Borough Council’s housing Ribble Valley geographical police Council backs new one-stop shop offering facts and support for young people this problem and are delighted to team on 01200 414567. To register inspector Hassan Khan added: "Ribble and teachers, outlined how to combat cyberbullying, use Valley does have low crime levels, but computer privacy settings, use chat sites safely and which have supported this excellent for one of the Low Moor Gardens we should all still be taking sensible web sites to avoid. scheme, which will bring much- properties, call Plumlife on 0161 steps to protect our property. It included a short drama on the risks of social needed high-quality shared 447 5050. “We are asking motorists to take a ‘Trust Ed’site to help networking by pupils from , while few seconds to lock their vehicles and Catherine Perrin-Griffiths, a former pupil of St Cecilia's High ensure they have not left anything on School in Longridge, performed her song, Josh's Song, in view. memory of schoolfriend Joshua Unsworth, who was found “Residents who see anyone trying dead behind his family home in Goosnargh last year after car door handles or acting suspiciously youngsters steer clear allegedly being bullied on a social networking site. around cars or vans are asked to call The event was organised by Ribble Valley Borough 999 straight away." Council, Lancashire Police and the Grand in Clitheroe, after Motorists are advised that insurers a survey among high school pupils in Ribble Valley revealed may not pay out for property stolen of drink and drugs 88 per cent of respondents had a social networking from an insecure vehicle. account, 75 per cent had chatted to someone they did not RIBBLE Valley Borough Council is The site also aims to be a key know and 60 per cent had experienced bullying directly or Top tips to combat theft from supporting a new web site for young resource for parents, carers and indirectly. vehicles: teachers, where they can get Ribble Valley Borough Council's partnership officer, David zKeep loose change in a closed people offering information on drugs, alcohol, bullying and e-safety. information and advice, find links to Ingham, said: "Children of the internet age face the threat ashtray. A desperate thief will smash a other useful web sites and download Trust Ed is a one-stop-shop for facts, of bullies reaching them wherever they are and at any time. side window worth £80 to steal small helpful guides. change advice and support on a range of Kevin Horkin, chairman of the Ribble "They are learning social dynamics on the internet and zHandbags, leather jackets, wallets, community safety issues for youngsters Valley Community Safety Partnership, staying abreast of that as a parent is difficult. laptops and shopping should never aged 10 to 14. said: “Trust Ed is a fantastic way of "The aim of the conference was to offer parents advice be left on view, but locked in the boot The site, developed by Lancashire educating young people about the risks and information on how to stay a step ahead of the zLock portable satnavs in the boot Police in consultation with young that exist not just in the outside world, cyberbullies. and wipe any suction marks from the people across the county, provides up- but online, too. “We are delighted with the response to the conference, to-date information on news and issues windscreen “Young people are more at risk than which has facilitated some valuable ongoing work." affecting youngsters and will host live z Keep the inside of the vehicle tidy, any other age group of falling victim to Cyberbullying is the use of the internet and related web chats with police officers. as an untidy vehicle containing certain crimes, such as street robberies, It aims to help prevent young people technologies to harm or harass people in a deliberate, opened mail or plastic bags may as well as being exposed to falling victim to crime, give them the repeated and hostile manner. attract the curiosity of a thief cyberbullying and sexual exploitation. facts to identify if they or one of their According to the NSPCC, 38 per cent of young people z If there is nothing in the glove “Trust Ed is a reliable and trusted friends are a victim, provide them with have been affected by cyberbullying, including unwanted compartment, leave it open to view resource that young people in Ribble the information they need to get help Valley and throughout Lancashire can sexual messages and cyberstalking, while ChildLine z Remove the facia of your sound and support or report a crime and give go to for information and advice.” received 31,599 calls from children about the problem in system if it has one and use the PIN them a platform to express their Trust Ed can be found at 2011/12. facility opinions. www.trusted2know.co.uk. zKEY TO THE DOOR: Colin Hirst and Rachel O’Connor 6 Spring 2014 Ribble Valley News RIBBLE Valley residents with health problems are Health Lancashire and the East Lancashire Clinical very good by 97 per cent of respondents in a staying the right side of fitness thanks to the Commissioning Group, offers a range of classes survey, with a 97 per cent also saying they had council’s healthy lifestyles scheme. for people with specific health needs, such as heart made positive changes to their lives as a result of Nearly 5,000 residents have signed up to the complaints and weight management, as well as taking part. successful scheme since it started in 2001. long-term conditions, such as Parkinson’s Disease. Read on to find out how the healthy lifestyles The programme, run in conjunction with Public The programme was recently rated as good or scheme can put the skip back into your step. Heartwatch ticks over nicely thanks Cash bonus to health team A CARDIAC rehabilitation programme for Ribble Valley residents with heart problems is ticking along nicely for fitness thanks to the council's healthy lifestyles team. Heartwatch helps residents recovering from a heart attack or heart surgery return to health through physical activity and advice programme tailored specifically to their needs. Participants are referred to the 12- week Heartwatch programme by Ribble Valley Borough Council's RIBBLE Valley's healthy their GPs. During the scheme, they lifestyles scheme has been health and fitness officer,Tracy Balko, who manages the scheme, are continually assessed and helping residents with specific supported, and afterwards they can health needs stay fit for over 13 said: "Funding for the healthy lifestyles scheme has always been continue with the scheme or take years. up alternative exercise. Now the popular scheme has fixed-term and subject to renewal, received a funding boost for a but the great news is that our Over 300 participants have passed further two years. current funding from Public Health through Heartwatch, which is Ribble Valley Borough Council Lancashire and the East Lancashire managed by Ribble Valley Borough has been running the scheme on Clinical Commissioning Group has Council and funded by the East behalf of health sector partners been extended for a further two Lancashire Clinical Commissioning since 2001, since which over 5,000 years. Group, since it started in 2003. residents with a range of health "This is a fantastic endorsement Heartwatch starts with gentle problems, from heart complaints to of the scheme and its ongoing circuit sessions and progresses to success in helping residents with weight management, have taken more independent gym sessions, as specific health needs, who might part. participants gain fitness and The scheme has received otherwise not be able to access confidence. accolades from doctors, health appropriate fitness programmes." professionals and the Government Further details on the scheme are Ribble Valley Borough Council's for devising fitness programmes available from the healthy lifestyles zFITNESS FIRST: Tracy Balko (front right), with healthy lifestyles referral officers health and fitness officer, Tracy Balko, aimed at people with specific needs. team on 01200 414484. Sharron Whiteoak and Simon Walton, and enthusiastic participants said: "Cardiac rehabilitation schemes run successfully throughout the country, but the uniqueness of Heartwatch is the close working 10th anniversary for walking group relationship that the healthy lifestyles team has with the local A WALKING scheme that is helping Ribble 10-minute treks for residents with restricted clinical team, which ensures Valley residents take great strides in their mobility. participants are getting the absolute health and fitness is celebrating its 10th Stepping Out coordinator Barrie Williams best guidance and support.” anniversary. said: “Walking can play an important role in Stepping Out was set up in 2004 to creating a healthier nation and evidence is Clitheroe mum Diane Simpson promote walking as an effective and low-risk increasingly showing its many benefits. (pictured right), who was referred to form of physical activity for those who are "From modest beginnings, Stepping Out is Heartwatch by her GP following a inactive. now one of Lancashire's most successful heart attack, said the scheme was Started with a handful of volunteers and health programmes and we are delighted that changing her life. two treks a week, it now offers a bustling it is going from strength to strength. "The Heartwatch team really know programme of five weekly walks of varying "You don’t have to be fit to walk and the their stuff and are helping me return lengths and difficulty facilitated by an elderly, as well as those recovering from to fitness in a way that is appropriate enthusiastic team of over 30 specially-trained illness, can enjoy it – and it’s free!” volunteer walk leaders. Stepping Out encourages people who might to my needs. I can't recommend it It attracts over 130 weekly participants, 80 not otherwise be active to enjoy the benefits highly enough ." per cent of who have been attending Stepping of walking in a friendly, welcoming and non- Further details are available from Out for over two years. competitive environment. the healthy lifestyles team on 01200 A programme of evening walks starts in Further information and a Stepping Out 414484. May and a series of “prambles” suitable for programme are available from Barrie Williams pushchairs is in the pipeline, as well gentle on 01200 414484. Feeling under the weather? Visit your pharmacist first RIBBLE Valley residents are being encouraged to to prevent minor illnesses developing into their condition gets worse. The earlier, the better.” seek help from their pharmacist if they are feeling something more serious. The campaign, targeted at the over-60s under the weather. Bridget Hilton, chairman of Ribble Valley through their friends, family and carers, aims to And the elderly are being advised to tell a Borough Council’s health and housing committee, reduce pressure on the NHS by decreasing the friend, family member or carer if they have a bad said: “Pharmacists can provide expert guidance number of people requiring emergency hospital cough, cold or sore throat, to prevent it getting on how to alleviate or manage long-term admissions with illnesses that could have been worse. conditions, or give advice on the best treatment effectively treated earlier by self-care or The NHS campaign, ‘The earlier, the better,’is for minor ailments, such as a cough or cold. community pharmacy services. also asking anyone caring for or visiting an elderly “So it is essential that older people seek help as Further information is available from relative to get advice from their local pharmacist soon as possible to prevent a trip to hospital if www.nhs.uk/asap. Ribble Valley News Spring 2014 7 DAY-TRIPPERS and weekenders are flocking to Ribble in partnership with the county’s tourist board – pursuits and heritage. Valley in their droves, new figures have revealed. Marketing Lancashire – and the Ribble Valley Tourism “And we are working with our partners and a buoyant The latest national tourism figures show that visitor Association to promote and develop the local visitor and entrepreneurial private sector to ensure this numbers in Ribble Valley increased by three per cent economy. remains the case.” last year, from 3.5million to 3.61million, with a The council’s tourism and events officer, Tom Read on to see how Ribble Valley Borough Council is corresponding increase in tourism spend of seven per Pridmore, said: “Unlike many boroughs in Lancashire, ensuring the area where Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II cent, from £159.16million to £169.61million. Ribble Valley has a strong brand as a visitor destination, has said she would like to retire remains firmly on the Ribble Valley Borough Council’s tourism team works particularly for food and hospitality, countryside visitor map. New-look guide is Lucy helps create euro-friendly web site content better than ever! RIBBLE Valley Borough heritage, outdoor activities, themes of food, country walking Council has published its 2014 weddings, the arts, events and a and shopping. visitor guide, Discover Ribble comprehensive accommodation “The guide has been very well Valley. listing. received since undergoing a The new-look guide was It also features recipes from top revamp and interest in this year’s redesigned in a coffee table local chefs Nigel Haworth of publication has been high.” magazine style last year following Manor and Stosie Madi Discover Ribble Valley will be consultation with customers and of the Parker’s Arms. distributed at tourism exhibitions advertisers. It was a great success, Ribble Valley Borough Council’s and visitor information centres doubling in size from previous tourism and events officer,Tom across the UK. editions and attracting significant Pridmore, said: “Discover Ribble It is available from the Visitor interest. Valley focuses on businesses with a Information Centre and Platform This year’s guide features real story to tell offering authentic Gallery in Station Road, Clitheroe sections on food, shopping, visitor experiences around the on 01200 425566.

A welcome - in any language WELCOME, wilkommen, bienvenue, tourism web site into French, German bienvenidos! That’s the message from and Spanish, as well as making the Ribble Valley Borough Council’s content more relevant. tourism team thanks to Clitheroe “We hope to reproduce her work Grammar School pupil Lucy Woods. into printed leaflets for Clitheroe, The 18-year-old language student Whalley, Longridge and the Forest of at Clitheroe Royal Grammar School Bowland, as we are keen to welcome has set about translating sections of overseas visitors to Ribble Valley.” Ribble Valley’s tourism web site into Camilla Mammen, 24, a student French, German and Spanish. placement from the International Lucy was keen to apply her foreign Business Academy in Denmark, is also language skills and contacted the currently working in the council’s council’s tourism and events officer, tourism team and has undertaken Tom Pridmore, with an offer to further translation work in Danish. translate parts of the web site to make There are also plans to translate it more accessible to overseas visitors. Ribble Valley’s tourism literature into Tom said: “Lucy has enthusiastically other languages, particularly Chinese, zTOPS FOR TOURISM: Tom Pridmore (top right), with guests at the launch of Ribble Valley Borough translated significant parts of our Mandarin and Dutch, in due course. Council’s new visitor guide Free app opens up award-winning food trail to the world

AN award-winning food trail that has and even Tasmania. "Ribble Valley food is now acknowledged as online, with 43 per cent actively using social championed Ribble Valley produce and And now it has its own free app that will among the best in the country, but the media and 56 per cent owning a web-enabled been emulated as far afield as Tasmania open up a host of benefits to food trail challenge is to ensure the trail stays a step phone, while studies show 68 per cent of now has its own app. members, food enthusiasts and visitors to ahead by consolidating and improving its e- businesses have created leads from social The Ribble Valley Food Trail, launched in Ribble Valley. communications interactivity and making the media. 2008 by Ribble Valley Borough Council, Ribble Valley Borough Council leader most of the opportunities afforded by social The Ribble Valley Food Trail app will open features 29 producers, shops and restaurants Stuart Hirst said: "The Ribble Valley Food media." up a host of benefits, such as one-click providing top-quality food, exceptional Trail has been a tremendous success, New technology is radically changing the booking, video and digital vouchers. Geo- customer service and excellent provenance: showcasing the excellent work undertaken by way people interact.There has been a massive located content will also enable vouchers and food produced, sourced and consumed locally. the borough's food producers, retailers and increase in the number of people using and coupons to be delivered straight to mobile The trail has been a runaway success, chefs, while celebrating the area's remarkable communicating via the internet, e-mail and phones near businesses on the trail. winning a raft of awards and critical acclaim, recovery from the 2001 foot and mouth mobile phones. The app is available on the AppStore and and emulated in Oxford, Northern Ireland epidemic. Over 80 per cent of UK adults are now Google Play. 8 Autumn 2013 Ribble Valley News 20th anniversary discounts on offer at gallery Platform Gallery THE award-winning Platform Gallery week beginning Tuesday, May 20. WHAT’S ON and Visitor Information Centre is The gallery will also feature 20 craft Forthcoming exhibitions celebrating its 20th anniversary with a activities throughout the week, including raft of special activities and discounts competitions, demonstrations and drop-in Until April 19 from Tuesday, May 20. activities, while the work of 20 selected Beauty Is The First Test artists will be showcased. Explores craft and mathematics, showing how The Station Road gallery opened in May There will be a bunting challenge in important mathematics is to contemporary 1994, after the redevelopment of the semi- craft practice. Beauty and playfulness is derelict Clitheroe Rail Station. May, during which local schools will be invited to design and produce their own evident in the exhibits that are delighting The station building was turned into a craftspeople and maths geeks alike. multi-award-winning travel hub and art bunting that will be used to decorate the gallery, called the Clitheroe Interchange gallery building. May 3 to July 12 and Platform Gallery, which received an The Platform Gallery and Clitheroe Visitor Craft Open 2014 official opening by His Royal Highness Information Centre is a one-stop shop for Popular annual open exhibition featuring Prince Charles in 2002. visitors and art and craft enthusiasts, with craftmakers from across the North of England. The gallery became one of Lancashire's the latest information on events and A vibrant and eclectic exhibition featuring furniture, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, glass premier venues for contemporary crafts accommodation, a shop selling maps, souvenirs and craftwork by local and and mixed media. Vote for your favourite and underwent a further £100,000 piece in the People's Choice Award. refurbishment funded by the Lottery in national artists, and a gallery exhibiting the 2001. best contemporary art, and hosting 26 July to October 11 The Clitheroe visitor information centre workshops throughout the year. Sanctuary moved from the Council Offices to the All purchases between £100 and £2,000 Showcasing crafts for the home in a specially gallery last year. can be purchased through Own Art, an constructed living room, dining area, child’s zTHE BIG 2-0: Platform Gallery and Visitor Shoppers and arts enthusiasts are invited interest-free purchasing scheme. The bedroom and adults bedroom featuring Information Centre supervisor Stephanie to join in the anniversary celebrations with gallery is open Monday to Friday 9am to furniture, textiles, woodwork, ceramics, Hibbert and administrator Rose Hamilton a 20 per cent discount off all items for a 5pm and on Saturdays 10am to 4.30pm. lighting, plates and glasses. Councils link up to produce new map of picturesque valley routes Sports clubs to feature in Five new ways to explore borough ‘hub’ RIBBLE Valley Borough Council has launched a ‘club hub’ featuring information on sports clubs throughout the borough. And clubs signing up to the borough cycleways new scheme by May will be entered into a free draw for £50 FIVE treks for cycling enthusiasts have been Valley is the ideal destination for cyclists. worth of sports vouchers. set out in a new map produced by Ribble “This new map is the perfect starting point for The hub, which will be Valley Borough Council in partnership with cyclists looking to explore our picturesque published on Ribble Valley Lancashire County Council borough and stay fit at the same time.” Borough Council’s web site, will The Ribble Valley Cycle Map features three The new treks are part of the 260-mile feature comprehensive short and two medium treks by road or fell Lancashire Cycleway that runs through Ribble information on sports clubs suitable for novice and experienced riders, and Valley and takes in the famous Gisburn Forest throughout the borough, families. Mountain Bike Trail. including contact details, who the The routes take in numerous Ribble Valley club’s coaches are, where and villages, including Downham, Chipping, Hurst when the club meets and web site Green, the Upper Dunsop Valley and Gisburn zWeekly cycle rides for all abilities are and social media links. Forest. organised by the Clitheroe Bike Club. Ribble Valley Borough Council’s The council’s culture and leisure services Further details are available from The sports development officer, said: manager, Colin Winterbottom (pictured), said: Green Jersey on 01200 427630. Cycle and “Sports clubs play a vital and “With its quiet country lanes, breathtaking mountain bike hire is available from Pedal valuable role in encouraging scenery and attractive pubs and cafes, Ribble Power on 01200 422066. people to take up sport. “The aim of the Ribble Valley Club Hub is to have a dedicated area on the council’s web site offering the public and potential new members as much information as possible to help them find and choose a sports club. “The hub will be an invaluable resource for parents, teachers and sports participants, and we are inviting sports clubs to sign up.” Plans are also afoot to set up a Ribble Valley Community Sports Forum that will meet quarterly offering sports clubs the opportunity to network and share ideas. Further details are available from Peter Fletcher on 01200 414435. 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.