RESIDENTS in Rossendale will get the chance to have their say about how they would like to revitalise sports, leisure and culture.

Organisations such as Sports England and the Arts Council have said they will look more favourably on grant applications from organisations which can show they have public backing.

Rossendale Council, as part of its new approach of working with partner organisations, has appointed consultants to prepare a strategy to tap into money which groups are unable to raise on their own.

Coun Lawrence Forshaw, chairman of Rossendale Council's leisure committee, said: "Councils are preparing for the next five years. They will be exciting because a realistic strategy will release extra cash for facilities.

"We hope everyone involved in sport, arts, museums, heritage, countryside, libraries, parks and play will get involved in the consultation".