Cabinet minister Theresa Villiers visited Barnoldswick on Thursday to see first-hand how the Government is helping local people and businesses.

She was joined by Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson, borough councillor Paul White, who has responsibility for town centres, growth and business and local councillor Jennifer Purcell.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland was shown round the town by 17-year-old student Lyle Davy and visited Harry Garlicks and House of Flowers, before meeting Richard Milner, chairman of Barnoldswick Town Forum, and Keith Mitchell, who runs the new Barnoldswick Market, at Chubbys Chippy.

She also met local businesswoman Sophie Mitchell at her business, Cafe on the Square, in the town centre.

Ms Villiers said: “It’s obviously a beautiful place, and a very friendly one. I was delighted to hear that it has a very high proportion of independent retailers; they are crucial for our economy, but they are a great way to ensure you have a vibrant community.

And she added: “We recognise that small businesses need help, times are still difficult. That’s why we’re helping out with the reduction in small business rates, which has been a real concern on high streets across the country. The Chancellor has acted on that.”

Lyle, who is a business student at Nelson and Colne College said: “I was proud to be asked to show her around Barnoldswick. It’s a place I’ve grown up in and we have a great sense of community.

“I hope she will go to the next Cabinet meeting and tell them all to try Barnoldswick.”

After visiting Barnoldswick, the Secretary of State travelled to Nelson and Colne College, where she met students, apprentices, employers and staff.