THE NEW leader of Hyndburn Borough Council has revealed plans to relax the dress code for councillors and officers in a bid to attract younger blood.

Coun Ian Ormerod said he planned to bring up the topic through the leader's policy board and that it would eventually pass to the council for a full debate.

He said: "We are trying to encourage younger people to come into politics but they have different dress codes to our's. We shouldn't expect them to dress as we do.

"I am strongly in favour of equal opportunities and although women can wear trousers, men are still encouraged to wear shirts and ties whatever the weather.

"This can be stifling and uncomfortable in warmer weather and I think people should be able to dress appropriately for each occasion".

Councillors are expected to dress formerly for full council meetings and civic functions but the new policy could give them the choice of attire to fit the occasion as they saw fit.

But former leader Coun Peter Britcliffe said he felt the decision showed a lack of respect for the council and its position.

He said: "I'm not a great suit wearer myself but always wear one for council meetings and civic occasions.

"It is a matter of keeping up standards and that is an image we should portray. I think we have to be very careful as people look up to us to set standards and it says something for your respect for the council if you are asking for that to be changed.