A HOST of activities in Bacup will boost businesses and encourage families to explore the town, market and shops.

Bacup Inspires – Spring has Sprung will begin this Friday, February 11th, just after school’s break up for half-term. On that evening the popular Grub’s Up foodie evening market will be held.

Throughout the week, there will be a host of family-friendly events including special storytime sessions at Bacup Library and Bacup Natural History Society will be hosting a mini fossil fest on Wednesday from 1.30 pm to 4 pm and the weekend of February 19and 20 Dr Worrall’s Cabinet of Curiosities will be open from 10.30 am to 3.30 pm.

Kathy Fishwick, Chair of Rossendale Civic Trust, will lead ‘Horrible History’ walks, with factual information provided by historian Wendy Lord from Bacup Nat. The walks will then be available for people to download and walk independently.

Bacup Business Association (BBA) has been working with stallholders on Bacup Market for six months to support the traders and seek ways to enhance the market’s offer.

In October, a huge event was held organised by events company Culturapedia when lively music was provided by the Ski Band, along with a variety of other entertainers and a Makers’ Market was introduced which proved very popular.

Chair of BBA Rachel Weinhold said: “The purpose of all the events we have been involved in, and those we are planning for February half-term, has been to increase footfall in the town and boost trade for the local shops, services and businesses.

“We want the market to be the central focus, but it is hoped that the activities will also encourage visitors to venture out into the surrounding streets to see what else Bacup has to offer.

“The Inspires event will hopefully benefit other businesses, organisations and attractions including Bacup Natural History Museum, Bacup Library and Bacup Royal Court Theatre.

“All of the events will target families and children, but they will also have a general appeal for all generations.”

At the end of half-term, on Saturday, February 19th, a large event is planned to focus on the market with attractions at different times throughout the day.

These will include children’s craft activities provided by Brush and Pencil, a ceramic painting stall, willow weaving and a special stall telling stories to children. Britannia Coconutters will be dancing around the stalls.

Rachel said: “We are grateful to Bacup Cultural Consortium for funding the cost of flyers, which will be distributed to local schools and given out to children to promote the event, and we have also received funding from Bacup High Streets Heritage Action Zone for market activities.”

Bacup Business Association reformed about four years ago and now has 150 active members. Monthly meetings are held in the local area to tackle a range of topics that are relevant and of concern to local businesses.

To find out more contact bacupbusinessassociation@gmail.com