A RURAL community could get a doctor's surgery or a computer centre thanks to £100,000 grant.

Villagers in East Rural ward which takes in Hoddlesden, Pickup Bank, Eccleshill and Blacksnape, will benefit from the first such grant to a rural area from Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Councillor Fred Slater, who represents the ward, said the money could mean a number of new facilities.

"The money could fund a doctor's surgery for one day a week or an IT centre for the village, it also means environmental improvements can take place," said Coun Slater.

"A committee will be formed to see how the money will be spent, but I can assure people full consultation will take place before any money is committed," he added.

Most of the money comes from the government as part of a public service agreement with Blackburn with Darwen Council. The council is providing £25,000.

Coun Slater said: "In previous times, money has gone to inner city areas as it was felt there was more social deprivation but I have said for a long time that there is just as much in rural areas.

"Until recently this has not been as noticeable but the current crisis has highlighted the problems farmers and their families face."

It is hoped a committee will be set up in two weeks and Coun Slater is looking for people to join it.

He is also looking for ideas from people about ways to spend the money.

He said: "There are so many things the money can do and I would like to see a broad section of people involved from schools to churches to councillors to representatives of businesses, farmers and the Hoddlesden Millennium Green Trust.

"The grant must be spent on projects that will benefit the whole community and could lead to money coming in from other sources. This money is exciting news for the area and we must make the most of it."