BURNLEY will be bidding again for a major slice of the Government's Challenge Fund this year - despite the handicap of being former big-time winners. Towns throughout the country compete against each other for Challenge Fund cash to enable them to link with private sector finance to carry out improvement and job-creating projects.

Burnley took a £19.5 million prize in 1994 - which, linked to private cash, will result in more than £130 million of investment in the town over a seven year programme.

The town's second bid in 1995 was rejected, many felt on the grounds that the Government wanted to spread the cash around more widely.

Pendle, for instance, first year losers, were awarded £9 million last year. Now Burnley will challenge again, although past success may well count against the town.

Council leader Kath Reade, said: "I think we have a lot going for us, despite being previous big winners."

This year, bids are likely to be in the region of £3-£5 million, councillors heard.

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