Charities, community organisations and businesses have come together to launch Christmas in the valley.
When Bacup was left without a Christmas tree for another year, retired resident Barry Hyde decided it was time to revive community spirit.
With WHN Solicitors’ offices benefitting from a central garden in the town, partners pledged their support and donated a 12ft Christmas tree and lights to stand proud.
The Rotary Club of Bacup soon threw its weight behind plans and will be lighting up another of the garden trees, while Bacup Pride, and Bacup events group joined forces to put on a series of community events in the run up to Christmas.
To kick-off the celebrations, the new community Christmas tree lights will be switched on at a ceremony held on Sunday, December 7. This will be followed by the Bacup Christmas Cracker event on Saturday, December 13, featuring performances from; Sean Ruane’s Christmas Community Choir, the Britannia Coconutters, Dansworks, Stacksteads brass band and local school children will carry out a Christmas nativity.
Over in Rawtenstall, WHN Solicitors’ office on Bank Street will be throwing open its doors to host the annual Santa’s grotto in aid of Rossendale Hospice.
The famous Rawtenstall Market, arts and craft stalls will also open from Saturday, November 29 showcasing award-winning independent shops and distinctive products.
Barry Hyde from Bacup commented: “Rossendale Valley as a community deserves a cracking Christmas and its fantastic to see so many groups and individuals come together to create something to be proud of.
“The donation of the Christmas tree is the icing on the cake and it will remain in situ to create a lasting legacy in the town.”
Partner at WHN Solicitors, David Connor, added: “As a law firm dedicated to supporting the community we are pleased to be able to help spread some festive cheer.
“Our offices in Rossendale sit in the heart of the valley’s towns and we urge more businesses to come forward to lend a hand in what will be a magical Christmas.”
For further information on the host of Christmas events taking place in Rossendale visit www.christmasinrossendale.wordpress.com
