A SIX-MONTH programme of talks and workshops organised by the recently established Sport Pendle will kick off this week.

The group will meet on Thursday at Nelson Cricket Club, in Surrey Road, and guest speaker will be Colin Patten, service manager for Pendle Council's parks, cemeteries and outdoor recreation.

He will discuss proposed improvements for outdoor recreation such as cricket and football pitches and tennis courts as well as giving an update on grant bids for sports facilities in the borough.

On Thursday, December 5, there will be a Millennium volunteers presentation by Kay Lingley, Lancashire sports volunteer and club development officer, aimed at encouraging young people to get involved in sport to ensure sustainability.

A Child Protection Workshop will be held on Thursday, January 9, 2003, to explain the need for a child protection policy if any club is to attract juniors.

There will be a councillors' question and answer time at the Thursday, February 6, meeting which will establish the importance of sport on Pendle Borough Council's agenda.

A review of the first six months of Sport Pendle will be considered on Thursday, March 6.

The organisation is aimed at bringing together the various sports people in the borough so that they have a voice.