We’ve had plenty of news to bring you from Preston over the past week.

In a week where we’re getting excited for all the businesses which can reopen on Monday and those aged 38 and 39 are being invited for their vaccines everything seems like we’re taking steps forward.

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We can even hug each other from Monday (cautiously, mind).

Here are five of the stories you may have missed this week.

The Body Shop in Preston one of the first to join ‘refill revolution’

The Body Shop in Preston city centre has joined the ‘refill revolution’.

The store, based in St George’s Shopping Centre, is one of the the global chain’s first branches to have a refill station installed.

Hannah Harrison, assistant manager at The Body Shop in Preston, said: “Our store has recently been picked as one of the first to join our refill revolution.

“This means we have a lovely new refill station where customers can pick up an aluminium bottle to reuse and purchase their favourite choice of refill.

“It’s good for the environment and is such a unique fun way to care for the planet.”

Read the full story here.

UCLan academic recognised for crucial work to end ‘honour’ based abuse

A psychologist from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) has been recognised for her vital research contribution which aims to end ‘honour’ based abuse and support survivors.

Dr Roxanne Khan, Director of the Honour Abuse Research Matrix (HARM) won the award titled: special recognition for academic contribution to end’honour’based abuse at the True Honour Awards 2020-21.

The awards were organised by leading women’s rights charity the Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO).

Read the full story here.

Preston Hindu temple volunteers cycle Guild Wheel for India’s Covid crisis

On Saturday, 8 May, volunteers from BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Preston participated in the Preston Guild Wheel Cycle Challenge.

They covered a distance of over 33km to raise much-needed funds for the Covid crisis in India.

India is currently experiencing a surge in infections and deaths from the coronavirus pandemic, with hospitals coming under immense pressure from oxygen shortages and lack of critical care beds.

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Read the full story here.

Preston soldier completes 48-hour march in memory of mum who died from Covid

Soldier James Kirby has completed a 48-hour march in memory of his mum who died from coronavirus.

James marched from Preston Flag Market at the Cenotaph to ITC Catterick and back to raise money for BLESMA (which supports veterans who have lost limbs).

The 154 mile march took place on Friday 30 April and James was also carrying 59lbs on his back whilst he completed the challenge.

James has raised more than £7,000 for the charity, beating his target of £5,000, and you can still donate to his Just Giving page here.

Read the full story here.

Preston’s young people offered free team programme with the fire service

Preston’s young people are being encouraged to sign up to a free 12-week programme with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service and The Prince’s Trust.

The programme is open to 16 to 25 year olds who are not in education, employment or training, and doesn’t affect benefits.

Participants will gain new experiences and skills, a qualification up to level 2, and the chance to work as part of a team in a variety of activities.

Read the full story here.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines