THE legacy of a millionaire jeweller lives on in Colne following the unveiling of 12 new bungalows.

Pendle Enterprise And Regeneration Ltd (PEARL) has completed the construction of the £1.4million housing development at Carry Lane for the Peter Birtwistle Trust.

The Trust was founded by Peter Birtwistle who emigrated from the UK to Canada but left his entire fortune to provide housing for people in his home town of Colne when he died in 1927.

Diane Buckley, aged 66, who has lived in Colne for 40 years is one of the first residents moving in to the new development at Number One Birtwistle East Lemes.

She said: “I’d been looking for somewhere to live near town for the last two to three years. I was so overwhelmed when I saw my new bungalow, it was perfect with everything I needed.”

Alan Davies, chair of trustees for the Peter Birtwistle Trust, said: “More people will be able to enjoy their independence with support on site in a location that’s handy for the town centre and with outstanding views over open countryside.”

Tim Webber, Managing Director of Barnfield and a PEARL board member said: “We’re proud to complete our first PEARL project for elderly people. The Carry Lane area of Colne is a popular place to live and this new development is next to the elegant gateway into Colne lined with Victorian townhouses.”