AN EAST Lancs MP has called on the region's towns to be more like Barnoldswick.

Andrew Stephenson, who represents Pendle, wants Nelson, Colne, Brierfield and Earby to enter this year's Great British High Streets Competition

Barnoldswick won the local centre award last year, when the judges were impressed by the use of the market space for events like the Bands on the Square, a free three-day live music festival of local talent, and Barlick Beach.

They said: "Barnoldswick has taken a range of positive action to halt the decline resulting from the closure of all of the local pubs and many vacant shops.

"Local traders and council representatives worked together to stop the downward spiral – persuading private investors to take over three of the failed pubs.

"The area’s economy is now benefitting from the additional footfall, and vacancy rates have been substantially reduced."

Andrew Stephenson MP said: “I was incredibly proud of Barnoldswick’s win in this competition last year both as the MP and a resident of Pendle.

"As part of my role I visit many of the local shops and high streets across Pendle and I’ve seen first-hand how good they really are.

"I firmly believe that Pendle has the potential to win the competition again this year and I would encourage other towns to enter.”

The competition is open to teams of local people working together to support and improve their local high street.

This includes town teams, Business Improvement District or a trader’s association.

Winners of the competition will share a £50,000 cash prize and have access to a range of mentoring and training opportunities to help improve their high street even further.

The deadline for applications is Friday, July 17.

To apply visit http://thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk/high-street-of-the-year-award