HUNDREDS of people turned out to show their love for Barnoldswick on St Valentine’s Day as the town celebrated the launch of its new visitor website and brochure.
Talented cooks competed in a bake-off in the Town Square, using a cast iron stove supplied by Esse, which has its foundry in the town.
The stove has regularly been seen on Channel 4’s River Cottage, featuring celebrity chef Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall.
There was also a separate competition for budding bakers of any age to decorate a cupcake on a Valentine’s theme.
Coun. David Whipp said: “It was a fantastic day and really busy. The bakers and those who contributed to the displays did a great job. There really was an outpouring of affection for the town.”
At noon, the website www.visitbarnoldswick.co.uk was launched with a bang, and residents took the chance to check out all its features, alongside the accompanying publication.
The glossy guide, which has been delivered to homes in the town, features all the unique shops and traders in the town, as well as local visitor attractions.
Copies can also be picked up from local businesses, the Rainhall Centre, Barnoldswick’s Tourist Information Centre and the library.
Coun. Whipp said: “The new magazine-style Visit Barnoldswick guide is packed with stunning photographs and bags of information about the friendly town of Barnoldswick.
“Our shop keepers really are a passionate group of individuals. In fact, Barnoldswick is ranked as having the second highest proportion of independent traders in the country.
“That’s why we want to encourage local people to be loyal to local businesses because they all offer something extra special.”
Pendle Council’s Town centre’s manager Hanna Latty said: “We’ll be sending the guide out to encourage visitors from outside the area to come and shop here, and also to visit us online.”
The website, which will expand as more residents and traders add information, includes all the latest news on where to eat, drink, shop, stay, and a guide to events and activities.
The guide and website have been produced with funding from the Town Council and Pendle Council.