High Sheriff sees Blackburn’s heritage, youth work and community projects on borough visit

Blackburn welcomed the High Sheriff of Lancashire, David Collinge DL, for a visit to see the people, places and projects helping to shape Blackburn with Darwen.

He visited the Town Hall on Tuesday 08 September 2026, where he met the Mayor, Councillor Mahfooz Hussain, and Mayoress Hamida Begum, along with councillors, council officers, partners and community organisations.

During the visit, Mr Collinge heard about work across the borough covering innovation, regeneration, youth services, employment support and local heritage.

At The Making Rooms, he was told about the organisation’s community focussed makerspace and its work with sustainable technologies. He also saw its ongoing expansion and the national and international work being delivered from Blackburn.

The High Sheriff then met the council’s Youth Justice Service and heard about support for young people up to the age of 18, and up to 25 for those in care, as well as the partnership work helping them access the right support and opportunities.

At Blackburn Museum, he met Richard Croasdale, the museum’s longest serving volunteer. Mr Croasdale shared his knowledge and experience of Blackburn’s cotton industry and industrial heritage.

Mr Collinge also visited Blackburn Youth Zone, where he was given a tour of the facilities and took part in a panel discussion with staff about employability services and how they help young people prepare for and access employment.

High Sheriffs are independent representatives of the King who support the work of the justice system, promote their communities and recognise the contribution of voluntary, charitable and public services across their county.

David Collinge DL said: “I came away with my head spinning at the sheer breadth of work taking place across Blackburn with Darwen. From supporting young people and those facing complex challenges to nurturing creativity at The Making Rooms, every part of my visit was fascinating.

“A particularly special moment was visiting Blackburn Museum with Richard Croasdale (at 91, the museum’s longest serving volunteer) and seeing the old looms. I began my own weaving career working on those same types of looms, so seeing them brought back some wonderful memories.

“Throughout the day, I was struck by the passion, pride and commitment of everyone I met. The Council and its partners are doing an extraordinary amount to improve lives and strengthen communities – work which deserves both recognition and a heartfelt thank you.”

Councillor Phil Riley, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the High Sheriff of Lancashire to Blackburn to showcase some of the important work taking place across the borough.

“Visits like these provide a valuable opportunity to share what makes our borough special and to highlight the partnerships behind the work taking place every day.

“Our communities are at the heart of what we do, and we remain committed to working with our partners to create opportunities and to make Blackburn with Darwen a place where people can thrive.”