EXTRA cash investment in Accrington, announced this week, came as welcome news to one young resident who campaigned for the town's Premiere Cinema.
Emma Allardice hit the headlines two years ago when she demanded better facilities for young people in the town.
And the 16-year-old was only too happy to show off the results of her hard work to junior minister Ian McCartney as he paid a visit to the town's newest entertainment venue, the Viaduct complex which includes the cinema and tenpin bowling alley which opened last year.
Emma gave Mr McCartney a tour of the cinema and youngsters from The Hollins Technology College joined the minister for a quick game of bowling.
Mr McCartney also met community leaders at the complex, including representatives from Sure Start, People of Accrington and Church Together, the community wardens and officers from Accrington Police
Emma, who is studying for her GCSEs, said: "I thought that once the cinema opened that would be it. But if they're using it as an example, that's pretty good.
"A lot of people are using the cinema and it gives kids something to do. Since it opened I don't think there's been as much vandalism and crime. I think the money coming in is very important, especially for younger people.
"Everyone has been coming up to me saying they've got more ideas for petitions for things like an ice skating rink and clubs for people in Spring Hill, and I'd like to get involved."
Mr McCartney praised Emma's work and said: "You always hear about kids who do things wrong - you never hear about kids who do things right.
"Emma stuck with it and convinced all the adults that her idea was right. This is all down to her."
