DARWEN businesses will have the opportunity to sign up for a flood warning scheme next month.

During the Darwen Employers' Forum on January 16, bosses who attend will be given a presentation about floods by the Environment Agency.

Darwen business have been targeted by the Environment Agency, which is also sponsoring the event, as the area has one of the lowest numbers who have signed up to the free scheme.

Corinne Campbell, a member of the Environment Agency's flood management scheme, said: "The flood warning service alerts businesses by phone, text, email or fax when flood watches or warnings have been issued for that area by the Environment Agency."

During the forum, Inspector Mark Thackeray-Scott will give a report on policing issues, which will be followed by a question and answer session.

And employers will also be given an update on the Darwen and Rural Local Area Agency Partnership and Neighbourhood Voices scheme by co-ordinator Patrick Deeth, and Darwen Academy by Brendan Loughran, principal designate, Darwen Aldridge Community Academy.

The Darwen Employers' Forum is intended as a chance for businesses in the area to meet to discuss any issues.

The meeting takes place at Blackburn Rovers Football Club, Ewood Park, from 11.45am to 2pm, and includes a buffet lunch.

Employers in the Darwen area who are interested in joining the forum or keen to raise new topics should contact Linda Grimshaw, employers forums manager, on 01254 505050, or email linda@cbpartners.