Learn more about Anderson Shelters

The local economy

Padiham is a small town on the outskirts of Burnley, Lancashire. The Town Council are trying to encourage independent small businesses to open up there. Padiham on Parade puts Padiham firmly on the map and by having this event on an annual basis encourages visitors to the town and therefore spend their hard earned cash in the local shops and businesses.

Volunteering, jobs & education

I believe our number of volunteers has increased year on year with this years project bringing in 4 new volunteers. With regards to education - we have a good working relationship with local schools who always attend our event. back in 2015 we had 7 volunteers who were willing to run with my idea of a 1940s weekend. Year on year our number of volunteers has increased and for the 2023 event 4 new volunteers joined us which now brings our total number of volunteers to 20.

Arts, culture & heritage

Our project impacted on heritage knowledge by way of crafting and story telling plus school children were also encouraged to dress up in 1940s clothing and take part in our sunday parade. The Anderson shelter also provided an educator who was available all weekend to answer any questions that the general public may have have. Children were amazed that during the war hours/days/weeks could be spent sheltering there from the blitz. Cadet Forces were present all weekend and took part in the Remembrance Service and Parade on the Sunday.

Activity, health and leisure

Being a part of something is good for our mental health - knowing you contributed (even if only in a small way) to such a large event is good also morale. Out attendance figure this year was up on the attendance for 2022. People are slowly getting back to a more normal way of living (post covid) and are more willing to get involved.