COMMUNITIES in South Ribble could soon be swapping services for an acorn.

South Ribble Borough Council has come up with the idea to boost community spirit in the area.

The council's community development officer Billy Maxwell hopes to create Local Exchange Trading Systems across the borough.

Billy said: "The principle behind it is simple - local people join a system in their area and offer each other services.

"For example, baby-sitting can be swapped for gardening.

"The currency isn't cash, but a made up form of coinage, such as acorns.

"If you do lots of work you become rich in acorn credits, which can be used to employ people through the system.

"It should encourage mutual aid and help lift community spirit."

There are 400 similar schemes nationally.

The main advantage of such schemes is that people do not need money to offer or receive services.

He added: "There is no interest or debt in this scheme and they encourage communication and foster community spirit."

The scheme is one of a number being promoted by the council to benefit both urban and rural communities.

Car sharing, community garages and community cafes are also being piloted in the borough.

Each scheme receives support from the council to make sure that they become successful, long-term ventures.

For more information, call Billy on (01772) 625350.

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