RURAL communities across Lancashire will benefit from a new body which will assess issues affecting the countryside.

The Rural England think-tank has been established as an independent body by the Rural Services Network.

With its own independent steering group, Rural England will examine innovative ways of overcoming the challenges faced by rural businesses and communities.

Rural Services Network chief executive, Graham Biggs MBE, said research would be undertaken across areas such as Lancashire in a way that was relevant, focused and cross-organisational.

He said: “We approached a number of people involved with the Commission for Rural Communities and asked whether they would give their time to establish a rural research service out of the ashes.

“We are pleased that eight of them agreed to do so.

“Having seven former commissioners and a former director involved alongside recognised rural bodies will form a work base that can grow into a strong grouping.”