PENDLE folk have been given the chance to help shape the area's future in six consultation sessions.

The public were invited to Barrowford Civic Hall on Saturday to have their say on issues that matter most to them in their area.

Five more consultation days have been planned, which will benefit Pendle people.

Brian Astin, who is leading the scheme, said: "This is not just another consultation exercise. This is your chance to shape Pendle's future.

"This is about developing services over the next ten to 15 years that will be delivered by a range of organisations."

Pendle Council, Lancashire County Council, the NHS, the police, Pendle Local Strategic Partnership have all teamed up to help bring about changes for the area.

Mr Astin added: "This is arguably the most important consultation exercise carried out in Pendle for many years." Dennis Mendoros, chairman of Pendle's Local Strategic Partnership, added: "We can't decide on the vision for Pendle, the key issues and the priorities for action without the public's help. We want your views -- it's your community, make sure you have your say."

Members of the public are invited to attend one of the following consultation days:

Northern Technologies, Netherfield Road, Nelson on Monday, October 28, from 6pm to 9pm;

Brierfield Community Centre on Saturday, November 2, from 10am to 1pm;

Colne Municipal Hall, Albert Road, on Wednesday, November 6, from 6pm to 9pm;

Barnoldswick Civic Hall on Saturday, November 9, from 10am-1pm;

Barley Village Hall on Monday, November 11 from 6pm-9pm.

People are invited to drop in and make their views known to representatives.

For details on the community strategy or the consultation programme contact Audrey Drinkwater at Pendle Council on 01282 661986.