HYNDBURN Tory MP Sara Britcliffe and Burnley Council's Labour leader Cllr Mark Townsend have praised Boris Johnson's Covid roadmap.

But the leader of Pendle borough has warned it must be backed with cash support for those hit by the pandemic.

Miss Britcliffe said: “After almost a year with some kind of restrictions, residents, shopkeepers and all the businesses in Hyndburn and Haslingden can begin to have hope again.

“This is the first step on our return to normal and I am delighted that, due to the success of our vaccination programme, we are able to take this step.”

Cllr Townsend said:"A cautious approach to unlocking is the right way forward.

"Burnley has learned the hard way with more than 260 deaths and many job losses that unlocking too quickly costs lives and livelihoods.

"Things are moving in the right direction and we have reasons to be optimistic that the worst is now behind us, providing we all follow the rules over the coming weeks."

Pendle Council leader Cllr Mohammed Iqbal said: “It’s crucial the government learns from their mistakes and ensure they provide communities adequate support.”

Rossendale Council leader Cllr Alyson Barnes said: "I welcome a clear and cautious approach to coming out of the lockdown.

“Businesses and those who have lost their jobs will need significant added support over the next few months.”