A VOTE has been called for on plans to establish a town council which would manage some of Darwen's local affairs.

Labour councillors have drafted a motion for Thursday's meeting of Blackburn with Darwen Council, demanding that a public referendum be held on the proposals.

Coun Kate Hollern, borough Labour leader and a Darwen resident, said: "Some of the opposition parties have said that this is what they wanted for the future. So we have decided to call for a vote on the issue."

Coun Hollern's motion has been backed by Coun Dave Smith, who represents Sunnyhurst ward.

Town councils are a rarity in Lancashire but they can raise funds via a precept on council tax bills, and manage services such as street maintenance, leisure centres and playing fields.