COMMUNITY groups in Pendle, from Scouts and Guides to Women's Institutes, are being urged to take part in a survey to find out if the area needs a community newspaper.

The survey has been commissioned by the Community Action Network (CAN), a consortium of environmental and other voluntary groups, to see if local organisations need a newspaper of their own to reach a wider audience, find new volunteers and share ideas on fund-raising.

CAN has commissioned local woman Jo Beaumont to carry out the survey. A questionnaire has been sent to more than 60 groups such as parish councils but organisers want to hear from more organisations.

"I am really keen to hear what local groups have to say and the survey only takes a few minutes to complete." said Jo. "The information will help us decide if a community newspaper gets the go-ahead in the spring."

Any groups wanting to take part in the survey should contact Helen Blyth on 01282 661988.

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