JAKE Berry, MP for Rossendale, has launched a ‘Fracking Forum’ so people can share their views about the controversial technique.

Fracking has been hailed as having the potential to create new jobs by unlocking millions of tons of shale gas lying underneath Lancashire.

However, concerns have been raised about possible negative effects it could have on the environment and water supply.

Mr Berry said he had been contacted by local people worried fracking could affect the environment or water.

He said: “Although there are no plans for fracking sites in our area that I am aware of, I’m interested to hear your views about it so I can properly represent everyone in Rossendale and Darwen on this important issue.”

Fracking is the process of drilling down into the earth before a high-pressure water mixture is directed at the rock to release the gas inside.

Water, sand and chemicals are injected into the rock at high pressure which allows the gas to flow out to the head of the well.

To take have a say on Mr Berry’s Fracking Forum, visit www.frackingforum.tk