Toll Bar Cottage in Broughton officially opened by Mayor of Preston

The Mayor of Preston officially opened Toll Bar Cottage – pictured shaking hands with Chair of Broughton Parish Council Pat Hastings

The Mayor of Preston officially opened Toll Bar Cottage yesterday (Sunday 3 October).

He was treated to coffee and a slice of cake and shown the extensive work that has taken place to refurbish and extend the 18th century toll bar cottage.

Meanwhile, the café was doing a roaring trade with live music from the Dunholm Duo, a classical guitar and talk on the cottage’s history.

Neil (who used to represent this ward on the city council) and Bobby Cartwright were amongst the quests, alongside current city and county councillors and Andy Rowett from the Lancashire Environmental Trust who have helped with the costs.

Reaching Communities have contributed to the capitol costs and are assisting with the wages of the manager until the cottage is self sufficient.

The cottage is run by Michelle Howard and her band of volunteers.

Local or small businesses have been used where possible with main contractor Vista from Penwortham who completed the job in very trying circumstances and the gardens were planted by Ribbledales nurseries.

The community rooms are available for local groups and community groups to use.

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