Open days attract 1,400

More than 1,400 people attended open days at Ribblesdale and Padeswood cement plants.

Clitheroe town crier Roland Hailwood opened the Ribblesdale event where the top attractions were the newly repainted Clitheroe Castle shunting locomotive and a new CAT loading shovel. Guides took visitors around the works in a fleet of minibuses and explained how cement is made.

At the Padeswood plant in Flintshire, the town band played and there was an army assault course and a number of other stalls. Site tours were conducted by enthusiastic employees and the feedback from residents was very positive.

Cement managing director Jim Claydon said: “Engaging with the community and maintaining a good relationship with our neighbours is vital and these open days have really helped to improve our image and reputation.”

More than £3,000 was raised for various charities at the two events.