YOUNG people are being consulted about the future of Rossendale while forging closer links with Rossendale Borough Council.

Members of Rossendale Youth Council have been invited to get involved in the Comprehensive Performance Assessment of the council which is due to be held later this year.

The young people will be encouraged to contribute ideas for the authority's self-assessment which will be submitted to the Audit Commission.

The Corporate Assessment Team will be assessing the council to ensure it is doing its best for Rossendale residents and will then make suggestions on how the council can improve its services further.

At a recent meeting between the Youth Council and Rossendale councillors and officers, the young people made it clear that they want to make a positive contribution to their community and create a difference for future generations of Rossendale people.

Youth participation worker for Rossendale, Colin Blandford, said: "From our perspective, we've had a really positive response from Rossendale Council. The officers have been very upfront and open with the young people."