The High Sheriff of Lancashire visited the Cleveleys Community Team.

The High Sheriff of Lancashire Robert Mitchel Webb JP DL was greeted by the Mayor of Wyre, Councillor Alice Collinson when he came to see the works undertaken by Cleveleys Coastal Community group.

Cleveleys was awarded £10,000 from the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) to create a new Coastal Community Team in January 2017. The team has since co-ordinated a town centre retail questionnaire, which has informed the development of an action plan. The action plan takes into account both short and longer term community priorities. The newly created Cleveleys Coastal Community Team has representatives from Cleveleys-based businesses and retailers, Rossall Beach Residents and Community Group, Wyre Council, LeftCoast, visitor attractions, schools, and churches.

During the summer months, Steve Farnwoth of HMP Kirkham project managed a group of prisoners to paint the bollards which run down the main high street, Victoria Road West, which was not an easy feat with over 250 of them!

As well as painting, plans are underway to transform the bus station, and all aspects of the town are being reviewed. The newly formed Town Centre Team has brought about the most visible changes, as they have weeded, swept and planted their way around the town centre. Together they have made it a cleaner, brighter and more attractive and welcoming place to shop.

The 2nd Cleveleys Scouts have also been helping to make Cleveleys look tidy working around the area of Rough Lea Road car park.

The role of the High Sheriff is to be the Queen’s representative in the County, and one of the main public duties is to support and encourage the voluntary sector. After chatting to the volunteer team the High Sheriff was given a guided tour of the town.

Jane Littlewood, Chair of the Coastal Community Team, welcomed the official guests, saying “All of the team are working hard to improve Cleveleys and grow pride in our community, and it means a lot to have our efforts recognised in this way.”

Wyre Council Planning and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, Councillor Peter Murphy, is an active part of the Coastal Community Team, he accompanied the guests on their tour of Cleveleys and commented: "It is gratifying to have a person such has the High Sheriff taking an interest in the scheme. It can only raise the profile and hopefully encourage other local people to volunteer in this very worthwhile effort".

Pictured: The High Sheriff with the Mayor of Wyre, Jane Littlewood, Councillor Peter Murphy and Cleveleys Community Team volunteers

For more information and to get involved

www.facebook.com/groups/careforcleveleys