THE four East Lancashire colleges have joined forces to help local firms.

The Business Initiative project aims to co-ordinate the services offered to firms by the further education colleges at Accrington & Rossendale, Blackburn, Burnley along with Nelson & Colne.

"Fifteen years in a management role within local industry has convinced me of the real need to develop a network of local business people and mentors," said Christine Illingworth, who is co-ordinating Business Initiative.

"This will assist businesses to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their existing situation and plan a way forward."

A key element of the programme will involve offering a practical business qualification at HNC or HND level.

The initiative has been welcomed by training chiefs in East Lancashire.

"This is a welcomed first step in facilitating the greater co-operation between FE colleges to meet the training needs of small and medium sized enterprises across East Lancashire."

Further information on the initiative is available from Christine Illingworth on 01282 711370.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.