THE people of Pendle have backed plans to create town councils in Nelson and Colne.

Residents were asked for their views on the idea, which would help to give them more of a voice on local issues that affect them.

Councillors and officials took to the towns' streets last month. And each was given overwhelming support in favour of town councils.

Coun Tonia Barton, chairman of the scrutiny panel set up to lead the Parish Review, said: "We've been looking at the way in which Nelson and Colne residents are represented.

"We think that town councils might be the best way to do this in the future, and residents seem to agree with us.

"Our initial findings are that the people we spoke to thought it was a good idea to set up a separate town council for Nelson and another for Colne.

"What we will do next is write to all households in the two towns so that everyone can have their say on the proposals."

If it is decided to form parish councils for Nelson and Colne, and Secretary of State approval is given, the new arrangements would be likely to come into effect in April 2008.