FED-UP residents are planning an election-day protest because they've been 'messed around' over a new pelican crossing.

They claim both the borough and county councils have unnecessarily delayed providing the crossing in Union Road, Oswaldtwistle.

Campaigner Rita Pilkington said: "We're disgusted by the way we've been messed around. First we were told the pelican crossing would be installed in April. Then we were told May by the county council. Now Hyndburn Council says it will be June before the crossing is completed.

"We have been given various excuses why it is being delayed but we're not satisfied."

Ward Councillor Peter Britcliffe said: "In view of the fact that extraordinary steps have been taken to finance this project, because of the present danger, I am alarmed that this work is being delayed.

"Surely one pelican crossing is very much like another and can't take six months to plan." But John Tunstall, who will stand for Labour, against Coun Britcliffe, to win the St Andrew's seat in this May's elections, said: "I think Coun Britcliffe is unaware of the technicalities. He has had very little to do with the campaign - apart from attending the public meeting last year."

Mr Tunstall added: "The April date was given for just road improvements, such as white lines.

"When Hyndburn Council decided to back the scheme, we could then afford a full pelican crossing and had to change the date.

"I have been involved with the campaign from the start and want to see it completed just as much as the residents."

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