LOCAL MP Janet Anderson is urging shops to make a special effort to open on the Sunday of the Rossendale Valley Bike Show.

She wants firms to support the annual event on September 22.

The Rossendale and Darwen MP was surprised and disappointed that most shops and cafes in Rawtenstall remained shut during last year's show.

Now she is trying to ensure there is no repeat and that the town centre is "open for business" to make sure the benefits of the motorcycle gala are spread as widely as possible.

Mrs Anderson said: "I was really surprised at the bike show last year to notice how many local shops and cafes in Rawtenstall remained firmly closed during this event. We should be proud of what the bike show brings to Rossendale.

"Thousands of bikers come into our beautiful valley every year to enjoy what has now become a firm feature in the annual calendar of bikers everywhere. As a former minister for tourism, I know how much these 'event tourism' occasions can do to boost local economies.

"We should remember that the bike show relies on local volunteers who work hard throughout the year to make this event possible. They deserve our support and I do hope that, this year, we shall see a town centre in Rawtenstall truly 'open for business'."