IF you were given £20 million -- how would you spend it?

That's the question posed by Councillor Renee Black, following the announcement of a cash windfall to boost some of Preston's beleaguered estates.

Preston has been earmarked for the cash, which will be used to improve the central core of the town, including Riversway and Avenham.

So far no specific schemes have been formally agreed -- so Preston folk are being asked to come up with a few ideas of their own.

Riversway ward councillor Renee said: "We have called several meetings recently to discuss how we should spend the money. "Ideas such as better street lighting and improved pavements have been put forward, but it's too early to say exactly what it will be spent on.

"We're now waiting for this cash to be put in the bank, and we'll no doubt hold another meeting with local residents to discuss this matter further.

"We want as many ideas as possible from locals because nothing has yet been finalised."

Peter Rankin, leader of Preston Borough Council, lent his support: "This money will be tremendous for the area.

"The Regional Development Agency whom we are getting the money from will start the five-year programme this August.

"Certain schemes are already earmarked. For instance, the university's arts building in Avenham will benefit from funding, but we would still like people's ideas and opinions on how best we can regenerate the town."

If you have a few good ideas and would like to see them put in to action, call Renee on 724983.