The completion of a £430,000 upgrade of the green heart of an East Lancashire township is being celebrated by the public bodies responsible for it.

The Friends of Memorial Park - in partnership with Hyndburn Borough Council, The PROSPECTS Foundation, and Proffitts Investing in Communities CIC - have announced the successful conclusion of a major improvement project at Memorial Park in Great Harwood, following support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Financial support also came from The Lancashire Environmental Fund and earlier this year Memorial Park was awarded Green Flag status, the 11th in the borough following a total of more than £430,000 invested in the park over the last 18 months.

The park has undergone significant enhancements aimed at revitalising the cherished community space and preserving its historical and environmental heritage.

Key elements of the project include the restoration of the War Memorial; the installation of new boundary railings; path and access upgrades; extensive conservation work in Roundwood; the installation of bird and bat boxes; community artwork displays in collaboration with local artist Cath Ford, pupils from St. Bartholomew's CE Primary School; and free community events including a 'Picnic in the Park' with live music and a series of nature walks with expert bird and bat watchers.

Ian Wilkinson, from the Friends of Memorial Park group, said: "Seeing the transformation of Memorial Park has been incredibly rewarding.

"This project was about more than just physical improvements; it was about bringing the community together and celebrating our shared heritage.

"We're especially grateful to the children of St. Bartholomew's for their inspiring artwork, which beautifully captures what the park means to all of us.

“As part of the funding our group are thrilled that we have been able to create a brand new website."

Hyndburn Council's parks boss, Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, said: "The transformation of Memorial Park is an example of what can be achieved when local authorities, community groups, and residents collaborate.

"This project preserves an important part of our heritage and enhances the quality of life for everyone in Great Harwood.

"We're proud to see the park become an even more vibrant and inclusive space for all to enjoy.

"Thank you National Lottery players for making this project possible."

Helen Featherstone, director - England North at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: "Conserving public parks is important for the Heritage Fund as we are committed to promoting environmentally sustainable heritage for everyone to access."