RIBBLE Valley residents are the least likely in the county to give up time to help others, according to figures released by Lancashire County Council social services.

The department is staging events across East Lancashire as part of national volunteer week and is hoping to recruit an extra volunteer every week for the rest of the year to make up a shortfall.

The problems are most acute in the Ribble Valley area, which tails the league with just six volunteers, whereas winner Fylde and Wyre has 64.

In the east of the county, Lancashire social services has 43 volunteers in Burnley, 23 in Pendle, 13 in Rossendale, eight in Hyndburn and six in the Ribble Valley. Figures for the west of the county are much higher.

Blackburn with Darwen is not included in the county council figures as it is a separate authority.

The 350-strong Lancashire team provides a range of services including befriending people facing difficulties and supporting carers for the elderly.