THE SEARCH is on for East Lancashire's best community group - and one area which could proffer a multitude of nominations is residents' associations.

East Lancashire currently has more than 100 community, tenants' and residents' associations working for the good of individual communities.

But these groups are often overlooked in the larger scale of things because they concentrate on precise geographical areas which do not effect others.

The work of such groups, however, is extremely important to those residing within those boundaries.

Rona Courtney, Housing Business Manager for Hyndburn Borough Council, said: "Residents' associations are formed to benefit a community. Each association sets its own criteria for how it works within the community.

"There are times when there are definite issues to tackle such as wanting improvements made to housing, roads, street lighting or litter.

"And a united voice from residents can and does get things improved.

"Many go on to organise social events, for instance Christmas parties for children or trips out for the elderly.

"And a number of associations have set up mini computer stations for residents to use free of charge.

"Residents' groups are extremely important in a community, they help create a real sense of community spirit plus a sense of ownership of the area for the people involved.

"They give people more input to the place they live and help to achieve real results.

"Residents know better than anyone what improvements an area really needs so it is one of the best ways of involving them in improving their own community. "

If you are involved in a particular residents', tenants' or community association which has achieved a great deal for local people, on whatever scale, complete a nomination form with an accompanying letter telling us why that group deserves to win the Community Group Award.

Similarly we want to hear if you live in an area that has been assisted by such a group or know of someone who has benefited from one.

Ms Courtney said: "The Pride of East Lancashire Campaign is an excellent idea and will give the recognition which is so richly deserved to these hard-working associations and other community groups.

"It may even prompt others to form their own residents association to help improve their own areas which has to be a good thing."