THE people of Carnforth will this weekend get their say on the regeneration of their area.

Carnforth is undergoing the first stages in a six-month 'health check' which will look in detail at the problem faced by the village and surroundings area.

It forms part of the 'Market Towns Initiative', a scheme devised by the Countryside Agency to revitalise small rural towns.

Saturday's public meeting starts at 11am at Carnforth High School.

Families are particularly welcome, with free refreshments on offer and children will be able to enjoy a bouncy castle.

The event will include speakers with experience of other successful projects and the chance to ask pertinent questions.

The project is to be managed by Rick Patterson, Lancaster City Council's recently appointed Rural Regeneration Officer.

Mr Patterson said: "This is a great opportunity for local people to come along and really get involved with seizing some of the opportunities that funding from the Initiative will give us.

"We all know the problems but perhaps some of the people out there may just have some very good suggestions for solutions."

He added: "In order to take full advantage of the health check we need everyone to turn up at the surgery first!"

Organisers believe a good turnout will allow for a more co-ordinated approach to regeneration and increase the chances of success in future bids for funding.

Anyone who cannot get to Carnforth High School but wants to know more they should contact Rick on 01524 582069 or e-mail him at rpatterson@lancaster.gov.uk.