AN MP has joined the calls to extend free parking in Rossendale so she can get her hair done without getting a parking ticket.

Local MP Janet Anderson said keeping at least four hours free parking in towns is essential for future prosperity.

But Rossendale Council is considering scrapping the free parking system after revealing at least £300,000 needs to be invested in its 55 car parks.

But Mrs Anderson said: "In Rawtenstall, you are only allowed to park for two hours with a disc and that is not long enough for most people.

"We need to protect excellent shopping centres like Rawtenstall and doubling the free parking time to four hours would encourage shoppers to come here.

"I always get my hair done at Freddie's hairdressers but it takes me two and a half hours.

"I can only park for two so I always end up with a £30 fine. This doesn't just affect me but many other people.

"Freddie has been told by customers that they cannot continue to come because of the parking restriction.

"We need to do all we can to protect small shopping centres."

Mrs Anderson has written to Rossendale Council expressing her views.

The council's review of car park charges is under way and a working group, chaired by Coun Leonard Entwistle, has been set up to find a solution to the current cash crisis.

Only £5,000 is currently available annually for the upkeep of the car parks.

Improvements discussed for the car parks in Bacup, Crawshawbooth, Haslingden, Rawtenstall, Stacksteads, Waterfoot and Whitworth, include resurfacing, better lighting, CCTV and improved signage.

Coun Entwistle said he would rule nothing in and nothing out before a full public consultation is completed.

He said: "We have not decided if charges are the right way forward but something needs to be done and it needs to be done soon."