The event was part of the Blackpool Pride of Place Partnership, led by Business in the Community with representatives from Blackpool Council and ambassadors who love Blackpool.

On Thursday 12th March, the Pride of Place Partnership brought together its “Born & Bred” network of alumni to host its annual National Ambassador Event at the House of Lords in London.

Hosted by Lord Michael Jay, the event welcomed over 100 guests united by a common purpose: the renewal of Blackpool, the UK’s favourite seaside town.

Speakers included Sir Andrew Parmley, Angela Rayner MP, Andy Charles (Blackpool Pride of Place Director), Cllr Neal Brookes, Kate Shane MBE and Mike Crowther MBE (CEO of Empowerment). They spoke about the success generated to date and outlined the challenges that remain, including the obstacles we still face in housing, health and our number of young people not in education, employment and training.

The evening allowed our alumni to hear updates, network with others, and commit to supporting the long-term transformation of Blackpool.

Local spoken artist Nathan Parker recited one of his poems about Blackpool.

Born and Bred is a network of alumni made up of ambassadors for Blackpool and the Fylde coast.

This is made up of influential people locally, nationally and internationally and is Chaired by Sir Andrew Parmley, Lord Mayor of the City of London 2016-17, raised in Blackpool.

Other notable Blackpool Ambassadors include: John Fallon, Blackpool Pride of Place Chair – Former CEO of Pearson plc; Lady Sylvia Jay, National Advisory Board Chair – Ex Chair of L’Oreal UK and Ireland; John Simpson CBE, BBC’s World Affairs Editor.

To learn more about becoming an Ambassador please contact Born and Bred’s Project Manager, Laura James: Laura.James@bitc.org.uk.