ACTOR and TV presenter Craig Charles -- best known for his role in BBC2 comedy Red Dwarf -- is visiting Burnley to host the town's first Business Brokers meeting.

The event, entitled It's Happening, aims to encourage bosses of Burnley firms to face their social responsibilities and get involved in the local communities in which they work.

It takes place in Burnley Football Club's James Hargreaves Suite on Thursday, September 18 and gives the chance for senior executives and community leaders to discuss how they can work together.

Lyn Hammond, Burnley Business Broker, who is employed by Initiative Burnley, said the event aimed to demonstrate that businesses can gain a competitive edge through social responsibility.

She said: "We are aiming to challenge perceptions and actively encourage partnerships by taking positive action to increase opportunities, strengthen sustainability and make a difference to the town."

The event, she said, was particularly important in the wake of a recent government report that identified Burnley as one of the most deprived local authority areas in the country.

Lyn added: "Over the past year I have been talking to many employers to find out what issues are important to ensure a successful and profitable business. Time and time again the same topics crop up and a significant proportion of them link directly into the development of the local community.

"Our event is a real opportunity for businesses to find out why they need to become involved and what they can expect in return."

Lyn said there would be opportunities to network with other business, discuss the issues with community groups and sign up to an array of options that could benefit the whole borough.

The event was welcomed by Mike Damms, chief executive of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, who said: "It's vital that business and community groups come together if we are to re-establish Burnley as a prosperous and thriving town.

"Everyone should be able to feel proud of living, working and investing in Burnley."