MORE than 1,000 people have signed up in just three days for the chance to shape the future of their borough.

Organisers of the new Citizens' Panels being set up in Pendle have been overwhelmed by the response to their invitations.

They asked 10,000 residents if they were interested in sitting on the panels which will act as a "testing ground" for future council policies.

Panel manager, Claire Armstrong, said: "We were not expecting 1,000 responses in the first three days.

"We are delighted to have received so many.

"The response has surpassed our expectations and we hope that many more local people take up the chance of having a direct say about council services.

"The larger the panel the more accurate reflection it will be in terms of what the local community wants in terms of services and the prices it is willing to pay for those services.

"Some people were so keen to respond that they even placed a stamp on the paid-for envelopes."

The 10,000 people were chosen as part of a sampling exercise which, in effect, gave one in six people in each council ward an invitation to join the panel. Panel members will be sent up to four questionnaires a year asking them about different aspects of the council's service.

The first survey, to gauge a general view of the service, is due to be sent out next monthand results will be publicised.

Council chief executive Stephen Barnes, said: "The council is keen to hear the views of local people about the services it provides and the panel can only strengthen our ability to do this."

Council leader Alan Davies, added: "This initial response shows that local people feel confident that their views will be listened to and taken into account by the council.

"I think it also shows that they want to work in partnership with us to achieve common objectives.

"I would urge more of those invited to respond and join the panel."

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