THE signs they are a'changing - especially in a Ribble Valley market town that is aiming to promote and maintain its heritage.

For many of the street signs in Clitheroe are undergoing a facelift to make them more reflective of the town's rich history - and help to promote trade and tourism.

And some roads that were previously unnamed are returning to prominence after being re-christened.

The most obvious case of re-naming is the small cobbled street adjacent to the United Reformed Church off Lowergate that links Moor Lane, now known as Strang Stee.

This is a departure from what it is referred to locally - Howards Entry -and is part of the market town initiative which aims to preserve the town's heritage.

The changes have been implemented by the Clitheroe the Future partnership which works in conjunction with Ribble Valley Borough Council.

Clitheroe the Future project manager, Richard Jackson, said: "In terms of Strang Stee we looked at the historical records and the only name that could be found was this which in old English means strong staircase' or strong ladder'.

"In this case it's a reflection of the town's heritage.

"In general we felt that many of the street signs were not in character with a historical market town and we have tried to introduce a standardised format.

"I don't think it will cause confusion because people in the town can now direct people by these new signs."

Clitheroe the Future has been established for four years and is funded by the Environment Agency.

It is also part of the government's market towns initiatives.

The Clitheroe scheme will see over 50 new street signs replacing previously dilapidated or unreadable signs.

It also intends to plant flower beds in the town to brighten up the centre as well as running youth support groups throughout the Ribble Valley.

Having received £1.2 million of funding from the North West Development Agency, Clitheroe the Future has made a £250,000 donation to towards the castle restoration scheme and is continuing its efforts in the town.

Graham Jagger, the council's street scene manager, said: "We are happy with the outcome of the project, which will bring some consistency to street signage in Clitheroe."