Top Ten success for Ramsbottom

Ramsbottom is one of the best places to live in the North West, according to a new survey by the Sunday Times.

The town has made the regional Top Ten in the newspaper’s league tables, which are published on 17 and 24 March.

The Sunday Times guide took into account a wide range of elements, including transport links, quality of schools, natural beauty, low crime rate, property prices, cultural life and unemployment figures. Each area was also assessed on its own individual assets, whether it is a local festival, fascinating architecture or proximity to an airport.

Councillor Mike Connolly, leader of Bury Council, said: "People in Ramsbottom have known for a long time that they live in a desirable part of the world, and we're all delighted that the Sunday Times have now brought this 'secret' to a national audience. With its mixture of urban and rural, a wide range of attractions and specialist retailers, Ramsbottom is going from strength to strength and long may it continue."

The news comes as no surprise to Paul and Emma Morris, owners of the Chocolate Cafe in Ramsbottom and members of Ramsbottom Business Group.

"Back in 2007, we returned to our native North West after a spell living on the French Riviera,” said Paul. “We chose Ramsbottom in which to set up home and as the location for our new business. With existing family ties in the area, we were attracted by the town’s mix of independent businesses, excellent schools and affordable housing. We love the friendliness, the sense of community and having the countryside on our doorstep."

The business group has a full events calendar and a dedicated website at www.visitramsbottom.org

* The fifth annual Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival takes place this weekend on 23 and 24 March. A huge range of attractions awaits families and choco-holics from far and wide – for more details, see www.ramsbottomchocolatefestival.com

ENDS

Press release issued: 19 March 2013.