Civic Pride Rossendale, a volunteer group dedicated to enhancing the local environment, has announced significant expansion plans and new projects following a successful annual general meeting.
The organisation, instrumental in maintaining green spaces across Rawtenstall, Waterfoot, and Crawshawbooth, celebrated its 25th Jubilee at the recent gathering at Rawtenstall Cricket Club, attended by nearly 50 people.
Current chair Lynn Smith acknowledged the contributions of volunteers, sponsors, and supporters, specifically highlighting the gardening and litter-picking teams and thanking Rossendale Borough Council for their collaboration.
Achievements across Rossendale’s green spaces
Key accomplishments included the Green Flag award for Sparrow Park and the library gardens, a UK recognition for high-quality park and green space management.
The group also oversaw new picnic benches at Tricketts Memorial Ground and Booth Road, both local sites, and a refurbishment of flowerbeds near a Lidl supermarket on Bacup Road.
Fundraising through the National Garden Scheme and a garden party in Sparrow Park, a local community green space, were also successful.
Development and upcoming initiatives
Looking ahead, Civic Pride Rossendale announced its merger with Haslingden and Helmshore Civic Pride, another local volunteer group, signifying considerable growth.
The organisation will also re-enter the Britain in Bloom competition, a national gardening and community greening initiative.
Upcoming plans involve creating a new garden space on Daisy Hill and working with partners on developments at Rawtenstall Market, Bank Street, and the Gyratory project, a local traffic improvement scheme. Charlotte Hocking shared the financial updates and the new Annual Development Plan.
Attendees watched a historical video from 2003 that showcased the area’s evolution. The evening finished with a pie and peas supper, and trustee Roger Thomson presented Lynn Smith with a bouquet and some bubbly in recognition of her commitment.
The meeting highlighted the group’s impact and plans for further development across local green spaces.
With new projects and partnerships underway, Civic Pride Rossendale is set to build on its established work, with strong appreciation for volunteers and supporters throughout.
