Ashby has been awarded Purple Flag accreditation for a seventh consecutive year.

The accolade is a recognition of its commitment to creating a dynamic, secure, and vibrant evening and night-time economy. 

Purple Flag – similar to the Blue Flag for beaches – aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5 pm to 5 am. 

This prestigious award was given for Ashby's blend of entertainment, dining, and culture.

The honour also includes the town's efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in the evening and night time economy. 

Key successes included in the submission were the continuation of the successful BID Rangers, an impressive events calendar attracting new demographics into the town, and the investment into the town's lighting, aimed at enhancing the feelings of safety. 

One new area was awarded its first Purple Flag, with 10 receiving a Full Renewal accreditation, and eight areas receiving an Interim Renewal accreditation. 

There are over 80 Purple Flag destinations around the globe across the UK, Ireland, Sweden, Malta, New Zealand and Australia. 

This includes world-renowned tourist destinations to small market towns. 

Purple Flag says it has represented the gold standard of the management of evening and night-time economies for nearly 15 years.