A CAMPAIGN urging revitalised trade and improvements to ugly buildings in Accrington town centre is gathering pace.

Traders, councillors and residents have all backed a Facebook campaign started by Huncoat man Mark Brown.

The medical equipment engineer has seen 182 people support the Facebook launch of the pressure group calling for an end to ‘pound town mentality’. Even retail guru Mary Portas has given the scheme the thumbs-up.

Mark, 40, said that although he has no business, or political links to the town centre, many Hyndburn residents like himself were losing patience.

He said: “Like everyone else I had just become completely fed up.

“I am just a local householder, but whenever you get talking to someone in the pub, the heart-breaking state of the town centre is always mentioned.

“Everyone makes the same comp- laints, so I thought why not come together as a pressure group to do something about it? I was surpris-ed how quickly it gained pace online.”

Hyndburn opposition leader Peter Britcliffe said he was back-ing it. He said: “I agree and will continue to press the council now to use some of the £5m they have in the bank to invest in the town.”

Town centre councillor Tony Dobson said: “While the council does not control everything, som-ething does have to be done. I am keen to see what this campaign can achieve and will be meeting Mark to find out more.”

Independent councillor Nick Whittaker said: “People coming together can achieve more. I hope we can revitalise the town centre. It’s a great idea.”

Known as CATCH, or Campaign for Accrington Town Centre’s Heart, the group has also been praised by Mary Portas.

Contacting the campaigners on Twitter, she said: “Accrington has a wonderful history of being pr-oud and resilient. Keep it up.”

Businesses who have friended the campaign on Facebook include Imposta Coffee, Max Cabs, Barb-ara Kays Accessories, and pubs including The Attic and The Bridge.

Council leader Miles Parkinson said the council would be happy to engage with campaigners.

He said: “One of their requests is to clean up offices in Broadway, which is already in the budget. The Pals memorial wrap-around will be on the building in 2014. We have got reduced funds and not everything is in our control, but we are dedicated to solving prob-lems and doing whatever is needed.”