ROSSENDALE could lose two of its planned art projects as part of the £2.3 million Irwell Sculpture Trail because of a cash shortfall.

The Valley was due to get eight further sculpture projects as part of the ground-breaking trail, which stretches from Salford to Bacup.

But the sculpture trail budget is £244,000 short of the money it needs to complete all the planned work.

The Bury-based project officer for the trail originally suggested cutting two major commissions from the scheme - one in Rawtenstall and one in Salford - to save £300,000.

But Rossendale councillors felt this was unacceptable and suggested that all the Valley's schemes could go ahead if additional sponsorship was found and local artists were used.

But if no further cash can be found, then Rawtenstall could miss out on a £25,000 community project and another £20,000 commission, the location for which has not yet been decided.

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