Last weekend, I attended more than 20 Christmas events and light switch on events across Pendle. Despite normally being one of those who firmly refuses to put my Christmas tree up until December, I must admit to having got the Christmas bug early this year.
I attended 12 different Christmas Fairs and the variety of stalls and the efforts of volunteers at each one was incredible as were the sums of money raised. The Grassroots Family Centre in Nelson raised £453 and the Little Marsden Parish Centre in raised over £1,100 to keep that centre running.
It is always a joy to see people coming together and enjoying the company of our neighbours, bringing the Christmas spirit to our communities. The kindness of the people of Pendle never ceases to amaze me and it is fully on show this time of year. Especially amongst our local charities and voluntary groups who do so much great work all year round.
I particularly enjoyed attending the Luther Greenwood Music Festival in Colne, where the Pendle Youth and Children’s Choir performed. I look forward to seeing many more talented performers over the festive period and will be taking part myself in Earby & District Churches Together ‘Earby to Bethlehem’ nativity on the 17th December.
Not only is it the season for friends and family, but the season of giving as well. I was a small businessman before becoming an MP and now I support small businesses in Pendle every chance I get. So this Christmas I want to urge everyone to shop local and support our local town centres and high streets by shopping locally when searching for that perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones.
On Saturday evening I was also delighted to be asked to cut the ribbon at the Grand Opening of The Bay Horse Inn Roughlee. A village pub, saved for the village by the village and run by a family who live in the village. I am sure the pub will again be at the heart of the community for many year to come! Well done to the Swarbrick family and everyone involved!