Today we’re officially launching the Proud Preston section of our website.
Full of inspiring stories of kindness, courage and creativity, Proud Preston is the perfect antidote to the challenging times we’re all living through.
While the news on the Blog often continues to be dominated by Covid-19, we can always count on the ability of our fellow Prestonians to do the city proud.
And it’s not just us who feel this way – below we speak to some of the city’s leaders to find out why Proud Preston means so much to them.
To share your uplifting stories with us, email contactus@blogpreston.co.uk and include Proud Preston in the subject line.
Councillor Matthew Brown, Leader of Preston City Council
“As Council Leader I am delighted to endorse Proud Preston.
“During the long hard months of the pandemic it has been heartening seeing the selfless and community-led spirit of so many in Preston supporting those who needed help the most.
“For me this reveals the true nature of our city, which is friendly, caring, cooperative and doesn’t walk on by when people need help. This resilience and determination will help us in the months and years to come.”
Melanie Close, Chief Executive of Disability Equality NW
“Preston is a lovely place to live, work and visit – we’re a diverse city that celebrates the good in people and looks after each other.
“The pandemic has shown how our communities can come together and help each other through difficult times.
“I’m proud to be a Prestonian and love living and working in such a great city – and spending my spare time in the many green spaces we’re so lucky to have around us.
“We really do live up to the Proud Preston title!”
Dan Hill, Chief Officer of Rosemere Cancer Foundation
“The kindness and generosity of Prestonians never ceases to amaze and humble us. Even in this most difficult of times, they have invented often ingenious ways to show their steadfast support.
“They are a wonderfully loyal bunch, who are rightly proud of their home city and what it has to offer both the local community and those who come here from throughout Lancashire and South Cumbria to receive treatment at Rosemere Cancer Centre.”
Kailash Parekh, member of Preston’s Faith Covenant
“Throughout the hardship and misery of this pandemic I have been inspired by the generosity and resilience of our communities in Preston.
“Since the beginning of lockdown, and the drastic changes this made to our lives, people from every walk of life in our city have stood up to help their neighbours and their communities by offering donations, setting up community food banks and offering their time to help vulnerable people manage.
“They have also offered friendship and kindness in times of need through what has been a dark year for many people.
“I am delighted to endorse the launch of Proud Preston. This project will help share the stories of our communities and give us all reason to feel proud of one another and our city.”
Mike Pixton, BID’s City Centre Warden
“Preston is home to many inspiring people and organisations, and this new addition to the Blog Preston site is a great way to shine a light on them.
“It’s been a difficult period for so many people; this opportunity to engage in local positivity is something we can all benefit from.
“We hope readers enjoy looking at the good things great people are doing, right on our doorstep.”
Councillor Sue Whittam, Conservative Group Leader
“I am proud to be a Prestonian and pleased to support everyone in our community who is working together to bring some happiness, cheer and help in these difficult times.
“Things may sometimes get us down but it is the people pulling together that makes Preston the great place it is!”
Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines
Who or what makes you proud to be a Prestonian? Let us know in the comments.