CALLS by the Government for more people to take part in voluntary action have been welcomed by a leading East Lancashire regeneration group.

Chancellor Gordon Brown wants to see a stronger relationship between the individual, community and government, and a new financial foundation for charitable, voluntary and community action.

He also said he wanted to see more investment in the UK in projects which had social objectives, and were not simply profit orientated.

Peter Wilmers, executive director of Groundwork, said: "Our experience has proved that partnerships between local government, employers, voluntary organisations and communities make a real difference.

"As a charity we obviously need to encourage the investment of both money and of volunteers' time and we have worked together with the public and private sector groups throughout East Lancashire over the past 10 years.

"They have brought people together with a common purpose - and they have demonstrated the benefits of a healthy environment and a healthy economy.

"Environmental, social and economic regeneration must go hand in hand to secure a healthy and prosperous future for everyone.

"East Lancashire initiatives have proved that the chancellor's vision of bringing people together is achievable and sustainable.

"We have a flying start, with powerful partnerships at local and regional level already established. Groundwork certainly looks forward to helping deliver his vision."

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