Carnforth community brightens up 2020

But Carnforth Town Council in partnership with Carnforth Business Network are doing what they can to bring light to the town in the last few weeks of this annus horribilis – and until the end of January 2021!

Following an initial approach from Lancaster City Council to Carnforth Town Council, and a subsequently successful bid for funding, the ‘Carnforth Steps into the Light’ project was born.

Since then, Carnforth Business Network, has installed lighting in the War Memorial Gardens, along Market Street, New Street and parts of Lancaster Road and Scotland Road. And Morrisons of Morecambe have kindly donated a Christmas tree that is now proudly standing in the War Memorial Gardens.

In all more than 40 businesses have supported the scheme with each one being provided with a Christmas Tree given ‘pride of place’ above their shops and festooned with lights.

To entice residents and other businesses to get involved, Carnforth Town Council are running a competition, encouraging as many as possible to help the town shine brightly throughout the dark days of winter.

The day of judging has yet to be announced but there will be prizes totalling £625 for the best three of each category!

Speaking about the scheme, Coun Kath Bromilow, town mayor, said: "We all know what an unusual and challenging year that has been for everyone.

"Carnforth is a small town with a close-knit community that supports its residents and local businesses in good times and bad.

"Carnforth Town Council has built strong relationships with all our local communities – epitomised by its recent recognition from the High Sheriff of Lancashire for its work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"So, the opportunity to work with our friends and colleagues at Carnforth Business Network and Lancaster City Council on the ‘Carnforth Steps into the Light’ project was too good an opportunity to miss!

"We hope that in a small, but important, way, lighting up our town – and encouraging our communities to do the same – will bring some much-needed cheer for residents, businesses and visitors throughout the challenges of this winter."

Coun Jean Parr, Lancaster City Council cabinet member with responsibility for Arts, Culture, Leisure and Wellbeing, said: “In these darkest of times this excellent initiative is bringing some much-needed sparkle and cheer to these dark winter nights.

"It also serves as a reminder that brighter times are just around the corner and I’d like to thank all involved for the enthusiasm and hard work they have put in to making this project a reality.”