Like many residents, I was deeply saddened by the demise of Oswaldtwistle Civic following the liquidation of Hyndburn Arts Limited. This is a massive loss to the arts and culture scene in Hyndburn, especially when only recently Hyndburn has secured so much inward investment for Arts and Culture.

That is why I am calling for the establishment of a cross-party working group by the council to assess how to save and invigorate the arts and culture scene in Hyndburn, as well as developing a plan for the future of Oswaldtwistle Civic Centre.

After a strong campaign by the Hyndburn Labour team led by Cllrs Scott Brerton and Dave Parkins, United Utilities has confirmed that they are working with Huncoat United, with the possibility of continuing to play in Huncoat while the works related to Haweswater Aqueduct take place.

Like many of my Labour colleagues, I have also written to Northern Rail Chief Operating Officer Tricia Williams and Rail Delivery Group Chief Executive Jacqueline Starr to oppose the closure of Accrington Rail Station Ticket Office and preserve this vital facility for the benefit of our community.

Accrington Rail Station Ticket Office has served as an essential and valuable resource for the local community, offering convenient ticketing services, information, and assistance to passengers. It is more than just a ticket office, and it is vital that it is retained.

This highlights what leadership in opposition means – providing a constructive and positive voice to improve Hyndburn for its residents and its businesses.

Nationally, it was a successful result for the Labour Party in the Selby & Ainsty By-election. This was a record win, with Labour’s Keir Mather overturning the 20,137 majority, making it the largest ever in a by-election. This result highlights the progress the Labour Party has made and sets it on course for victory at the next General Election.