Colne with a population of 18,806 (2011 census), is the oldest and second largest town and
civil parish in the
Borough of Pendle, after
Nelson, which lies immediately to the west. It is six miles north-east of
Burnley, 25 miles east of
Preston, 25 miles north of
Manchester and 30 miles west of
Leeds. It was the main town in the area for many centuries being the market town and having a grade A listed market cross that dates to the 15th century allowing a market to be held there. The cross was originally in the Parish Church yard, but has been relocated in Market St, the main road through the town centre.
