A NEW state-of-the-art solar powered bus shelter, the first of its kind in Lancashire, was unveiled in Burnley yesterday.

The shelter, at Gannow Top, stores solar energy during the day to power internal lighting during the night.

The stop forms part of the Padiham to Colne Quality Bus route and has been donated by Sepco Holdings Plc of London.

County Coun Dorothy Westell, chairman of Lancashire County Council, officially unveiled the stop.

She said: "Innovation is the cornerstone of the Quality Bus initiative and I am sure the travelling public will view this new shelter with great interest.

"By providing better facilities for the travelling public and working hard to improve the reliability and frequency of services we have increased the popularity of bus services throughout Lancashire. I am confident the work we are doing in Burnley will bring similar success."

Lancashire County Council has teamed up with Sepco to try out solar bus shelters.

Their development is becoming increasingly important as the council seeks to develop Quality Bus routes that reach out to rural areas.

Similar shelters, installed by the Council and Sepco in the Ribble Valley, are proving to be successful.