MEMBERS of Rossendale Civic Trust today appealed for people with an interest in the borough to join its ranks and shape the future of the borough.

The group is aiming to become a "touchstone" through which the people of Rossendale can communicate with the council.

People are invited to the next annual general meeting of the group which is due to be held at the Weavers Cottage in Rawtenstall on Friday.

The group meets once a month and is particularly keen to hear from residents with an interest in local history, architecture and open spaces.

It said its two main priorities for the borough are planning and tourism.

It hopes to have an input in the formation of the Rossendale Plan, a planning document which sets out the development of the Valley for the next ten years.

Kathy Fishwick, chairman of the Rossendale Civic Trust, said: "The Civic Trust is a body committed to improving and conserving and getting the best out of buildings and open spaces.

"We are trying to build a body up that has a real interest in Rossendale. The meeting is open to all with a genuine interest in having a say in the future of their community.

"One of our aims is to become a touchstone for communication with the council so we are looking for people who are interested in building the communication basis.

"Anyone who wants to specialise in a certain area or take something under their wing is more than welcome to do so."

The group is also planning to show plans for the ILEX Mill development at the meeting. Plans for 94 apartments have been submitted to the council. People with an interest in the planning application can view the proposals at the meeting which starts at 7.30pm.

For more information contact 01706 229937.