LANCASTER people are being offered a chance to have their say on the future of special educational needs provision in the area.

The service is being reviewed by Lancashire County Council, which says it wants to give as many special needs pupils as possible the opportunity to attend a mainstream school on a full-time or part-time basis.

The county says it plans to retain a 'vibrant' special school sector and wants mainstream and special schools to work closer together.

It will make gradual changes over the next 10 years.

But Cllr Alan Whittaker, cabinet member for education, says people are being given a chance to air their views before the plan is implemented.

He says: "Any changes at school can be unsettling for children and that can cause concern for parents. We want to make sure that the amount of disruption is kept to a minimum and that no child is moved to a new school unless it is agreed by everyone concerned that such a move is in their best interest."

People are urged to make their views known on the plans, and a special series of meetings have been organised.

Meetings will be held at The Woodlands Centre, Chorley (Mon-day February 17 at 7pm), The Oaks Hotel, Colne Road, Reedley (Friday February 21 at 10am) and Garstang High School, Bow-greave (Saturday March 8 at 10am).

If people cannot attend the meetings but would like to speak to some-one they can leave a message on 01772 261727 (24 hours).