COUNCIL bosses in Burnley have expressed concern after hearing that officers in Bury and Rochdale are trying to make Rossendale part of Greater Manchester.

Stuart Caddy, Burnley's Council leader, said he was deeply concerned about Bury's proposals.

He told Burnley's executive meeting: "I found out about this through an article in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph and I am very concerned about what I have read.

"We need to keep our eyes on this as an authority and find out exactly what has been happening."

Speaking after the meeting, he added: "What we want is for Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale to unite as a unitary authority. We think that's deliverable and it's about the right figure to be a unitary authority.

"We have had close working relationships throughout the care trust and health trust, so it would be a natural option."

And council leaders in Rossendale today told of their embarrassment when they learned of the discussions.

David Hancock, deputy leader of Rossendale, said Bury are considering taking Rossendale under their wings for their own self gain.

He said: "When we needed help it came mostly from East Lancashire authorities and I think that proves a point in itself. Bury seems to be the one that started this idea because they are the smallest metropolitan in Greater Manchester and their prime concern is to increase their numbers by using our 65,000 population."

Councillors are still awaiting a report currently being put together by the chief executive of Rossendale, Owen Williams, which is set to include facts in relation to discussions that have already taken place.

The final decision would fall into the hands of Central Government after a referendum is held about the possibility of regional assemblies.