GO for gold -- that was the message to East Lancashire businesses as 2002 Commonwealth Games organisers launched their pioneering Legacy project in Manchester.

And it was revealed that local aerospace companies are already benefitting from the Games bonanza -- while other East Lancashire companies are involved as contractors helping with preparations for the event.

The Legacy project aims to give businesses the chance to maximise opportunities from the games by offering business support and training.

Rod Sellers, chairman of Clitheroe-based Ultraframe plc and the chairman of Prosperity North West -- which aims to squeeze the maximum economic benefits from the Games for North West companies -- said: "There are real opportunities here for sustainable economic growth in East Lancashire.

"It won't be an easy ride, but we will put in place the funding, skills and support businesses need to take this once-in-a-lifetime chance."

Mr Sellers said the games would present a tremendous promotional opportunity for East Lancashire trade and investment -- in an area only 30 minutes drive from some of the top international sporting events.

"We will need things like miles of security fencing, for instance, air conditioning and even thousands of Portaloos. The business opportunities are there," he added.

The Games are expected to attract one million visitors to the North West. "It's a great stage for East Lancashire businesses to promote their goods and services and win investment."

Mr Sellers said the North West Aerospace Alliance, based at Pendle Business Park, Nelson was already benefiting.

Members had taken part in a trade mission to Australia on the back of Games funding and Canadian companies had also been in touch about making contact during the duration of the Games.