BARNOLDSWICK is celebrating after its thriving centre was named top of the shops in a national competition.

The Great British High Street competition recognised that the town has taken positive steps to halt the decline caused by the closure of its pubs and shops.

It was one of seven winning towns out of 21 originally shortlisted along with others including Wantage and Colwyn Bay.

Each of the winners were selected for their ability to innovate, collaborate and adapt to changing consumer habits.

Cllr David Whipp, and owner of Chubby's Chippy, Richard Wilner, set up Barnoldswick Town Centre Action Group and entered the competition

“We’re absolutely delighted at the success of Barnoldswick in this national competition," said Cllr Whipp.

“The real reward is in the vibrancy and vitality of our town centre, but to receive national recognition is the icing on the cake."

He added a huge team of volunteers had worked hard to make the town such a good place to be.

“They’ve put on some brilliant events and everyone has joined in, including some talented musicians," he said.

“The relationship between the traders, residents and volunteers has been fantastic with everyone pulling together to create a very special high street.”

The judges attributed Barnoldswick’s success to the outstanding collaboration between local partners, coupled with a huge sense of community pride.

They highlighted the use of the market space for multiple events including ‘Bands on the Square’, a free three day live music festival of local talent.

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

The winners will receive a share of prize money and support from a fund worth £50,000, as well as dedicated support and mentoring from industry experts.

This could range from one to one coaching or advice on creating business plans, to workshops on digital marketing.

Cllr Whipp added: “Our Visit Barnoldswick Facebook post has now reached over 33,000 people and more than 1,200 people have watched the video we released about the town. We’ve also had congratulatory messages from towns in America, Canada and Australia."

Cllr Paul White, who oversees Pendle's Enterprise Growth and Promotion, said he was delighted with Barnoldswick's success.

“David and Richard work tirelessly to make Barnoldswick the thriving town centre it is and this national award is well deserved," he said.

The competition is run by the Future High Street Forum. It attracted 135 entries, all revealing new and inventive ways to boost their high streets.