Great British High Street success

Last month the Parish Council entered the Great British High Street 2016 competition to identify the best British high streets for the first time. Our entry was in the 'Village' category.  

The competition is mainly aimed at those cities, towns and villages that have regenerated failing high streets. However, there is also the opportunity for those which have bucked the trend of shop closures to enter. The entry was endorsed by Ward Councillor and Leader of Cheshire East Council, Rachel Bailey.

This week we received the excellent news that although Audlem hadn't made the final three in our category, we were in the top five in this national competition. 

An email has been received from the organisers stating "We received a record number of entries this year and the standard was very high. You put in a great application and although you didn't quite make the Top 3, we're delighted that you made the Top 5 in this category."   The three villages that are in the final are Kirby Lonsdale in Cumbria, Langport in Somerset and Pateley Bridge in North Yorkshire. The decision as to which village wins will be made towards the end of November.

The fact that Audlem has done so well is a well-deserved tribute to:

• the many local shopkeepers who not only supply our everyday needs but also ensure that their window displays are bright, attractive and welcoming to residents and visitors alike;
• the volunteer groups and individuals who organise all the events that draw in the visitors and those that ensure that the village looks at its best;
• Audlem Online for the excellent website
• the Parish Council for providing funding.

Congratulations to all.

AudlemOnline adds: We also had a message from Parliament about this story. It says:

Local MP Antoinette Sandbach has offered her congratulations to everyone involved in Audlem's bid to win the Great British High Street Competition 2016.

Speaking after hearing the news that Audlem had narrowly missed out on a win but had finished in the top 5 in the Country, Ms Sandbach said: "I'm over the moon that Audlem has been recognised as a fantastic High Street, an amazing place to shop, do business and socialise.

"To beat so many other entries in the 'Village Category' is outstanding, finishing in the top 5 is an incredible recognition and testament to the hard work of the trader's locally and of course local people who support these businesses and help the area flourish."

"I want to offer my congratulations to everyone whom has put so much work into this bid and achieved this recognition for the area."

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