Pendle News Room

Former Mayor and Mayoress, Councillor David Whalley and his wife, Barbara Whalley, dedicated their fund raising efforts during their mayoral year to support the Friends of Pendle’s Parks Groups.

They also raised money for the Philip Wright Crown Green Bowling Academy.

Councillor Whalley said: “Pendle’s parks are among the best in Lancashire thanks to the support of the Park Friends groups.

“Our parks are special places which improve the quality of life for local people and visitors.

“They are valuable natural habitats, too,” he added.

All eight out of Pendle’s parks which have Friends Groups kept their prestigious Green Flag status, it was announced by Keep Britain Tidy in July.

“Pendle’s Green flag success is thanks to the hard graft from our staff and teams of Park Friends and volunteers,” stated Councillor Whalley.

In handing over the cheques to the Park Friends groups, Barbara Whalley, Pendle’s former Mayoress  explained:

“Our aim was to raise as much money as possible to support the work of the Park Friends groups and to encourage more volunteers to support their efforts.”

Councllor Whalley added:
As well leading activities which have brought in a wonderful amount of money for the charities, Barbara has also helped to raise the profile of the Friends Groups and the sport of Crown Green Bowling in Pendle.

Fund raising efforts included the Mayor’s Ball and a Pendle Parks photography competition won by Peter Catlow of Nelson for a stunning photography of blossoming cherry trees taken in Victoria Park Nelson.

“It’s all been a huge success and we’re grateful to everyone who helped to raise money for our chosen charities,” said Barbara.

“This is our way of thanking the volunteers for making a difference to our parks,” she added.

The money raised could be used in a number of ways including tree planting, park events, health initiatives such as walking trails, new facilities and the chance to upgrade some park benches. 

Anyone who’d like to help care for and improve their local park is welcome to join a Park Friends group.  To find out more email:  parks@pendle.gov.uk  or visit www.pendle.gov.uk and look up the details in our Parks section.

And you can follow what’s happening with the Friends Groups as Barbara continues to post news and events on the Facebook page:  Friends of Pendle Parks.