RESIDENTS in Bacup and Whitworth are being urged to share their views on issues which concern them.

Rossendale Council's Area Forum meetings are already proving a big success with the first two gatherings in Haslingden and Rawtenstall having attracted a good turn out. It is hoped even more people will attend the forthcoming meetings in Bacup and Whitworth which have been set-up to enable people to raise issues of local concern.

Representatives from key partners such as the police, health bodies, Lancashire County Council and voluntary sectors will attend the meetings over the coming months.

Every session will include a public question time and Those attending will also be able to complete a form on concerns they would like to be raised at future meetings.

Chief Executive of Rossendale Borough Council, Owen Williams, said: "We've been really pleased that so many people made the effort to attend the first two meetings and hope that such a good turn out continues throughout Rossendale over the coming months.

"We were especially impressed that so many young people came forward to make their voices known at Rawtenstall as we are keen to gain the views of all residents and all age groups." Whitworth's Area Forum meeting is on Monday July 21 at the Civic Hall and Bacup's is at the Leisure Hall on Monday July 14.

Both meetings start at 7pm.