CITIZENS of Rossendale are invited to join a new organisation to try to get the council to adopt good practice.

Brenda Wilkinson, of St James Street, Rawtenstall, has worked for local government since 1964 and recently held the post of European officer at Burnley Council.

She is spearheading the launch of a new movement, The Rossendale Chartists, which will hold its inaugural meeting on January 5 at 2pm, at Rawtenstall Youth and Community Centre.

Brenda said: "Just like the Chartists in the 19th Century, we are faced with decision makers who can't, or won't, accept they need to adjust to changes in our needs and expectations.

"We are told that nothing can be done because the council has no money, yet last year it underspent by £400,000."

Brenda said a number of community activists have begin to share an understanding of Rossendale's problems and, as a result, a draft constitution, charter and plan of action have been suggested and will be put to the meeting.

Problems she claims to have already identified include councillors being denied information and clear advice, citizens laws being breached in terms of human rights and council requests being ignored.

Next year, all of the council's 36 seats will be up for election and the ultimate aim of the Chartists is to offer all candidates the chance to sign up to the Charter to agree a code of good practise.

Brenda said of the Ombudsman's 42 separate standards for good practice, she had examples of Rossendale failing to meet at least 36.

Anyone interested in attending the meeting can contact Brenda on 01706 231522 or email bwilkinson@onetel.net.uk