BURNLEY Council is counting down the followers as it prepares to pass the 8,000 mark on Twitter.

The number of people following the council’s social media account, @burnleycouncil is about to hit the 8,000 mark for the first time.

Since launching its account in April 2009, the council has tweeted more than 4,500 messages covering issues ranging from flytipping and licensing to election results and events at town’s award-winning parks.

The first tweet announced the spring attractions fair at Towneley Hall.

Cllr Tony Harrison, the council’s executive member for community services, said: "Social media has become increasingly important as a way for local authorities and public figures to interact with the people they serve.

"It’s a great way to keep in touch with news from the town hall and find out about the great events happening in the borough. Our following is growing fast and new people are joining us every day."