Leek Town Council says it is delighted to announce that it's bid for government funding to support the opening up of the town centre has been successful.

Leek Town Mayor, Cllr Lyn Swindlehurst said: "Leek has been awarded up to £18,000 of Town centre funding, specifically to support town centre businesses, in encouraging both residents and visitors to come into town and enjoy our fantastic shops, pubs, restaurants and, of course, our lovely markets.

The town council's chair of events Cllr Matt Swindlehurst added: "The funding will allow us to raise the profile of the town through the staging of music, children's entertainers and other attractions within the shopping area.

"We are working closely with Moorlands Radio, whose stage will be a regular feature in the town centre between now and Christmas."

The first event – a Families Day, will be held on Saturday 21st August with various extra attractions popping up around the town.

Following this will be an arts event on 8th and 9th October with a children's arts trail around the town.

Plans are also in hand for some fantastic town centre laser shows as part of the town's Christmas late night shopping dates.

Matt Swindlehurst added: "We have also been granted monies to give the three war memorials in the town a good 'spring clean' before the start of their centenaries in 2022. The money can only be used for very specific purposes and is only available until March 2022."