THE name of the man or woman who is to lead Burnley's task force investigation into the recent racial disturbances in the town is expected to be announced early next week.

Whoever is chosen is expected to be a person of national status who will command the respect of all members of the community.

Burnley Council leader Stuart Caddy said: "We have had lots of names put forward but no decision has yet been made.

"We are looking at someone of national rather than local status."

Coun Caddy added: "Time is getting short but by early next week we should have a name for the position of independent chairman as well as exactly who will be on the 12 or 13 person task force."

It is already known that the task force will include Coun Caddy, council chief executive Dr Gillian Taylor, leader of Lancashire County Council Hazel Hardy or nominee, a representative from the government office for the North West and representatives from local communities, youth and business.

Coun Caddy added: "We hope to announce all 12 or 13 names by early next week."

It is then expected that the task force will then meet within 48 hours to start to collate information and to develop an action plan for short term, medium term and long term solutions.

There will be public meetings as well as close liaison with various local groups and communities.

It is expected that the task force will work for three to four months and then report back to a second community conference.

The work on planning the way ahead will then be taken over by a local strategic partnership which will continue to work with all communities.