BUSINESSES are being asked to attend the launch of Darwen Chamber of Trade.

Five founding members, who have their own businesses in Darwen, want traders to attend the launch on June 28 with a view to joining.

They say it will be an informal meeting so traders can talk to Chamber of Trade members and make contact with owners and managers of other Darwen businesses.

The chamber aims to give town traders the chance to get their voices heard in the light of all the changes taking place in the town.

It is hoped to create a network in which businesses will be able to exchange information and be regularly informed on such matters as which proposals are planned for the town, how trends are changing and how the police are tackling crime.

Blackburn with Darwen Council, the police, Capita, Darwen Civic Society and other organisations have also been invited to attend.

The launch will be held at Frankie's Bar in Church Street at 7pm.