A COUNCIL leader's bid to open up his authority has taken a step forward with the launch of a series of advice surgeries.

Coun Bill Taylor, of Blackburn with Darwen Council, will hold 'Meet the Leader' advice surgeries on Saturdays.

Coun Taylor, leader since June, hopes the events will work in the same way as surgeries organised by ward councillors and MPs, with local people being able to discuss any council-related matters causing them concern.

The sessions will also be attended by a senior council official who will be on hand to offer further advice. A council spokesman said the authority believed it was the first in the country to hold such an event on a regular basis.

The new surgeries follow the launch of an e-mail address which allows people to contact Coun Taylor directly. A 'phone hotline has also been set up.

Coun Taylor said: "It is my aim to give everyone in the borough the chance to come and chat about issues which concern to them.

"My e-mail and telephone service launched a few weeks ago and reported in the media has been very successful. But many people prefer to speak face to face, so I have decided to launch these unique one-to-one advice surgeries.

Since the launch of the email and telephone service, Coun Taylor has received queries on a variety of issues including regeneration and investment in Darwen, road maintenance spending, neighbour disputes, pollution problems, complaints about conifers and crime and road safety issues.

"As council leader, I want to hear how local people feel their services are being delivered and would urge anyone interested in coming along to ring my office and book an appointment."

"There will be an officer present who will be able to offer advice and, if required, refer the matter to the relevant council department for them to investigate."

The first surgery will take place between 9.30am and 11am on Saturday, followed by a similar session at Darwen Town Hall on October 13. Anyone wanting to book an appointment or contact Councillor Taylor direct should ring 01254 585757. For email enquiries, contact council.leader@blackburn.gov.uk