A PROJECT to increase life expectancy in Pendle has been boosted by two new recruits.

Health workers Michael Rawsterne and Anjanette Stokes, who are based in Pendle Council's Neighbourhood Management team, have been enlisted to help improve the health and wellbeing of residents in deprived areas of Pendle.

The scheme is part of a pledge, made by 22 organisations, to work together to save one million years of life by 2011.

Michael and Anjanette, who have been appointed using funding from Pendle Council and NHS East Lancashire, will link-up with community groups and partner agencies in Nelson, Colne and Brierfield.

Their tasks will include making residents more aware of their own health and encouraging them to make more use of the services available to them.

Michael, who previously worked for Brook, the young people's sexual health clinic, said: "Sadly, in some parts of Pendle, life expectancy is much lower than the national average.

"Our task is to help reverse this trend by making sure local people of all age groups have the support they need to make lifestyle changes and that they know where to get help if they need it.”

Anjanette, who has a background of working in Healthy Living Centres, added: "We've both been in post for just over six weeks, so it's all very new at the moment, but we're already starting to make some very positive links with different community groups and organisations."

Coun Gary Bird, Pendle Council's health champion, said: "The early detection of health problems is key to a long and happy future.

"I'm delighted that we're making positive steps towards helping save a million years of life in Pendle."

To contact Michael, call 07595 087366 and to get in touch with Anjanette, call 07595 087365.