ST ANNES may have to wait another year before it gets its town council, organisers say.

Elections for the new council were expected to go ahead this year, but now residents may have to wait until April 2005 for their town council - officially approved in February by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Barbara Mackenzie, spokeswoman for the 50-strong steering group, said supporters were disappointed, but 'taking a positive outlook'.

"The creation of the council has been delayed because of a boundary problem - the boundary committee are not happy with our eastern boundary, between Lytham, Ansdell and St Annes, and want more time to consider it," she said.

The ancient boundary used in the original town council application does not tally with current district ward boundaries, she explained.

In addition, the government's boundary committee is 'heavily involved' with preparing for possible changes to local government if there is a 'yes' vote in this autumn's referendum on the proposed North West regional assembly.

"Fylde Borough Council said they, in turn, didn't have enough time to precept a budget for the new council or to make electoral arrangements," Mrs Mackenzie added.

"Traditionally, the creation of a parish happens on April 1 so it looks as though we will have

to wait a year, despite pleas to the relevant people to allow it to happen sooner.

"The steering group was disappointed but we are taking a positive outlook."

Members organised a public meeting on Tuesday night which attracted around 50 people and led to six more joining the steering group.

Mrs Mackenzie said the meeting had highlighted St Annes' need for a 'non-party political voice', how more people thinking of standing for council could join the steering group, and ways of getting more young people involved.