Business and council officials have welcomed the launch of a brand new glossy magazine for Accrington.

Councillor Clare Cleary and Tracy Leeming, Marketing Manager of Oswaldtwistle Shopping Mills, are supporting the publication which is produced by Scott Dawson Advertising.

Accrington’s LIFE:STYLE Magazine, as a pilot scheme, will be distributed throughout the borough and published twice a year.

The launch is the initiative of Murray Dawson who was born in Clayton and now lives in Great Harwood. As part of the company’s ongoing civic pride project; the scheme supports and celebrates individuals and organisations working to improve life for people in the borough.

Murray explained that the magazine’s editorial objective is to promote the positive side of his home town its surrounding areas and showcase them to tourists, business investors, and heritage, music and culture fans.

Said Murray: “The area I grew up in sometimes projects a downtrodden image. We choose not to dwell on the negative issues and focus purely on the many positive aspects of the area, such as fresh investment, regeneration, wonderful community spirit, rich history, stunning surrounding countryside and our flagship football club, Accrington Stanley.”

Added Murray: “Like other districts perhaps more often visited, we enjoy the benefit of a busy and bustling town life, picturesque parks and villages and outstanding countryside which is perfect for cycling and hiking.

“Now, like other areas, we have our own glossy magazine to celebrate all that is wonderful about our towns.”

Tracy Leeming, marketing manager of Oswaldtwistle Mills, said she was proud to support a publication which promotes the most positive aspects of the area.

“The people who live here and visitors to Oswaldtwistle Mills know that there is much on offer in this part of Lancashire.

“It is good to see the launch of LIFE:STYLE magazine which will promote the area further.”

The magazine is available to pick up from shops, petrol stations and markets around the town. One of the distributors is Oswaldtwistle Mills.

Councillor Clare Cleary, who is featured in the first edition, added: “In this area we have a thriving public transport system, excellent markets and shops, great businesses and beautiful countryside. LIFE:STYLE Magazine is a wonderful addition to the area and helps to enhance civic pride.”

LIFE:STYLE magazine promises to explore and encompass all aspects of the area’s rich ethnic diversity and showcase local industry.

The first issue features four men of Irish, English, Kashmiri and Polish descent discussing their varying views of Family Values – and a spotlight on local businesses which have grown to become UK market leaders.