LETTER: Bringing back memories of Ribble Valley Business Club

I BELIEVE I can provide information about the “old photo” which you pulled from your archives in January 1993 and featured in your February 7th edition.
By The Newsroom
Published 27th Feb 2013, 08:39 BST

The event was a Ribble Valley Business Club event which was a joint initiative between local business people and Ribble Valley Enterprise Agency (RVEA).

As you say, the photo includes Nigel Evans (MP) and John Travis (Mayor at the time) – both have always been very strong supporters of the work of the Enterprise Agency, as was the late Leigh Morrisey in his time as Editor of The Clitheroe Advertiser

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Next to Nigel is the late Chris Lilburn, who was Chairman of RVEA. It was Chris’ wife, Joyce Lilburn who, when she was Mayor, was instrumental in getting an Enterprise Agency for the Ribble Valley in May 1986, to provide business support to new and developing businesses operating in a rural area.

RVEA was originally located above the NatWest bank in York Street, but moved to The Printworks at Barrow in 2001 from where it still operates.

John Anderson, pictured shaking hands with the Mayor, was a member of the original steering group, bringing his expertise as an accountant working with small and medium size businesses. Sadly John is no longer with us, having died suddenly at a young age.

On the right of the photo is myself, Aileen Evans, Executive Director RVEA, and next to me is Pat Wallis who was Assistant Director and co-ordinated the Business Club events. Next to Pat are Jane Baron and John Schofield, local business owners, but I can’t just see who the other lady is.

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Among other things, RVEA is currently working with partners to encourage and assist more young people across the North West to start and run a business. The initiative is part of the national Start Up Loan Fund providing advice, loan funding and mentoring to those age 18 to 30 starting out or in the first year of trading. The initiative has the support of Lord Young, entrepreneur James Caan and Prime Minister David Cameron. Further information is available by ringing RVEA on 01254 828820 or e mail: [email protected]

AILEEN EVANS,

Ribble Valley Enterprise Agency,

Suite 3, The Printworks,

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Related topics:John Anderson