BUSINESSES in Pendle are being offered the chance to get vital training at a low cost.

The council is bringing together a range of experts to conduct two health and safety seminars for people running small and medium sized firms.

Construction Safety Awareness is the subject of the first seminar, which is being held on Monday, October 13, in the Wilson Room, at Nelson Town Hall.

Topics will include asbestos and principles of using scaffolding.

The second seminar, which is being held at the same place, on Wedensday, October 15, is about working with dangerous substances and is aimed at businesses across all sectors.

Both cost £25 per person and include lunch.

Andy Welton, Pendle Council's heath and safety officer, said: "Many small and medium sized businesses simply cannot afford the usual prices of such training - about £200 per person per day. At £25, businesses simply cannot afford not to undertake this training which deals with life and death issues for employees and in some cases can make the difference between a business surviving and prospering or ultimately failing."

For the first time, the local authority has pooled together experts in safety and health, including the Health and Safety Executive and the Construction Industry Training Board to provide the training.

Places are limited to 20 delegates for each seminar. To book a place telephone Andy Welton, Pendle Council's health and safety officer on 01282 661692.