DRAGONS’ Den star Piers Linney will return home in September to promote Rossendale as an attractive business location.

The entrepreneur, who attended Fearns School in Bacup, began his career delivering newspapers in the borough.

He is now a director at the government-owned British Business Bank, which invests billions in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Former investment banker Mr Linney will be the guest speaker at the 'Invest in Rossendale' launch event on September 6, replacing fellow Dragon Hilary Devey who pulled out after a spell in hospital.

He said: “Rossendale moulded me just as it played a part in moulding the global economy resulting in its history being indelibly etched into the local architecture and landscape.

“I was inspired by Mr Beaumont, my social and economic history teacher at Fearns School, and his profiles of many great entrepreneurs.

“Many of our neighbours in Bacup were entrepreneurs with businesses including quarrying, joinery and garment manufacturing. When I started my first business at the age of thirteen, delivering newspapers that I purchased direct from the wholesaler to cut out the local newsagent, many of my neighbours became my first customers.”

Invest in Rossendale has been set up by Rossendale Council’s economic development team .

The evnt will take place at The Riverside, Whitworth, from 5pm to 8.30pm on September 6. Tickets cost £10 plus Vat, and include a hot buffet.