A COMMUNITY group has been set up in Rossendale to give Asian people more of a say.

Twenty-five Asian people attended a meeting with the Rossendale Chartists when it was decided to set up a joint action for race equality in Rossendale.

An initial eight-member steering group has been agreed and more meetings will be arranged to discuss the priorities in Rossendale Council's draft race equality scheme.

A spokesperson for the group said: "There has been no effective voice on race equality, drawing together all the various communities, since the race equality council was closed down.

"The borough council and other agencies often do not know who to contact if they want to consult or give information.

"We hope that our group will make a significant contribution to good community relations in our district."

For more information contact Joint Action for Race Equality in Rossendale, 16 The Valley Centre, Rawtenstall BB4 7QG.