LIFESTYLE-Magazine-Winter-2016

In the first of our regular features exploring the life and loves of prominent locals, Councillor Clare Cleary reveals her love for Accrington and dedication to serving the people of Rishton . . .

L:S How has Accrington changed for the beer since you have served on the council? CC: Accrington is a town that has, is and will change over the coming years. Since I have been a councillor, there have been major changes with the refurbishment of the Market Hall. The railway station has been refurbished and we now have a train that goes directly to Manchester from Accrington thanks to the reopening of the Todmorden Curve. We have seen the opening of the new state-of-the art bus station also in the town which is a fantastic facility. We are also in the process of planning a new town square, thanks to Lottery funding which will bring a beautiful space into the heart of Accrington and re planning the outside market. Exciting times ahead! L:S What are your personal and professional achievements? CC: My proudest professional achievements have been becoming a cabinet member as a councillor and being able to plan and make changes happen which is very rewarding as an elected member. Personally, I could not do any this without the support of my husband, Danny, my three children and two grand children who are also in the mix!

L:S Were you born and bred in Hyndburn? Howwould you describe the area to someone who has never visited the area? CC: I was born in Whalley, but brought up mainly in Oswaldtwistle where some of my family still lives. I live in Rishton and am a ward councillor there. We live in an area which is surrounded by beautiful countryside and we are very lucky. Some of my favourite spots are the Oswaldtwistle Moors, all the local Green Flag parks, Foxhill Bank Reserve, walks on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the Coppice.

Accrington is a town that has, is, and will change over the coming years

L:S HowwillthenewbusstationhelpAccrington? CC: The bus station is a fantastic facility for the town. It is purpose built, clean, dry and warm and safe for everyone to use. I am sure as the improvements to the town centre happen over the next 12 months, the bus station will bring in more visitors to the town. L:S You use the bus service yourself. Any complaints? CC: I use public transport and I think the facility is first class. The bus drivers are great and do a difficult job always with a smile. The staff members in the bus station are always pleasant and helpful too. Generally the feedback from fellow travellers has been very positive. L:S If you had a magic wand, what would you do for Hyndburn right now? CC: Hyndburn Council is faced with the dilemma of cutting costs and making the money stretch that we receive from the Government. More money to do more good in the borough would be an ideal magic wand for me. I try very hard to be a natural problem solver, but it is always good to work with others when trying to solve a problem.

L:S What are your top tips for tourists visiting the Accrington area? CC: Our Town Hall is a lovely venue to visit; we have a historical Accrington Pals installation which is interesting and poignant. The Town Hall puts on regular events and has become a wedding and party event venue. Haworth Art Gallery is also a lovely facility which shows art of local artists as well as an important collection of Tiffany Glass. There is also a lovely tea roomwhich is well worth a visit. L:S What would your perfect day in the borough look like? CC: Breakfast in the Market Hall, a walk up Manchester Road and a visit to Haworth Art Gallery for afternoon tea! L:S Tell us some of the positive changes you have made to Accrington as a council? CC: We have been proactive with local traders and enabled them to put on events in the town such as the Dickensian Christmas Event, which in turn promoted a lovely shopping area on Warner Street. Liaising with the local college and using venues in the town during the annual film festival.

Top Left: Accrington Town Hall on Food Festival Day, Accrington Pals exhibits in the Town Hall and Foxhill Bank. Above: Accrington Market Hall.

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