TRADERS and residents in Darwen have been urged to attend two meetings that will shape the future of the town.

A multi-million pound strategy for Darwen will be drawn up by the council over the coming months and meetings at Derwent Hall day care centre, George Street, next Wednesday and Thursday from 6 to 8.30pm will look at providing more stability for traders plus improving facilities and examining public transport.

Market trader Alec Boyland, who has campaigned to improve the market for years, said: "Anyone who wants to make improvements to Darwen should go along. It's the only way we can change things, by speaking as one voice."

Kathleen Reece, of Hodkinson's Florists, said: "I'll definitely be going because I think it's about time we put our views across. Hopefully traders can get a lot of their chests."

Jack Fisher, Darwen Civic Society secretary, said: "It's extremely important for future progress and it's crucial that we get it right. There are serious problems that need to be addressed like the traffic along the main road. We also need to persuade more Darwen people to use the town centre facilities."

Coun Andy Kay, executive member for regeneration, said: "Everybody's views count.

"In recent years so much work has already taken place in Darwen. The council was instrumental in attracting Sainsbury's to the town and a large number of jobs have been created in the last few years in the town hall and India Mill.

"We want to make sure Darwen is able to make the most of this new spending power and most of all we want Darwen town centre's vibrancy at the hub of the community to be built on and to ensure the town continues to thrive."

Local people can register for one or other of the dates by calling Darwen Town Hall on 01254 222101. People can post their ideas back to the council or contact the hotline on 01254 262111 or email regeneration@blackburn.gov.uk.