THE HEART of a town centre is to be given a makeover worth thousands of pounds.

Community leaders said the ambitious plans aim to keep Earby - ‘the beautiful corner of Pendle’ - looking its best.

Parts of Earby will get the facelift thanks to the support of the West Craven Area Committee.

They have given £2,000 towards the works which will include weed killing, wire brushing and painting planters, painting benches and bins and wall repairs.

Work will also see areas of stone flags along the high street repaired and repointed to level them out, fix them in place and make the town look better.

The works were due to start commencing on Monday (September 11).

Earby councillor and chairman of the West Craven Area Committee, Mike Goulthorp, said he looked forward to the work being completed.

Cllr Goulthorp said: “I’m pleased that we’ve be able to secure these funds for Earby.

"It’s important to keep our beautiful corner of Pendle looking it’s best and making sure that our pavements in the Town Centre free of tripping hazards.

“I look forward to the work being completed in the near future.”

In addition to the work in Earby town centre, the committee have also committed £5,000 to aid in the refurbishment of the hostel in the town.

The Earby youth hostel in Birch Hall Lane closed in January after the Youth Hostels Association (YHA) ended its lease with Pendle council.

But £5,000 has been given to new owners Earby Town Council, which will be used towards the installation of new central heating and hot water systems and the refurbishment of three shower cubicles at the hostel.

Mr Goulthorp added: “The hostel is important for tourism in the town which helps to support our local businesses and economy.

“These important refurbishment works, along with the great walks you can go on in Earby, will help this continue to thrive.

“I’m glad we’ve been able to play a small part in keeping this going by securing £5,000 to contribute to the refurbishment.”

Fellow Earby councillor Morris Horsfield said: “The works were needed in the town centre and hostel and this is a positive investment and boost for the town to keep it looking good.

“The work, including the refurbishment of the hostel will encourage more visitors into the town.”