SCHOOL crossing patrol officers in Lancashire can now carry on working after they reach the age of 75

LANCASHIRE County Council is hosting a series of events to celebrate National Volunteers' Week

PLANS have been agreed to revolutionise the way Lancashire County Council services are tailored to reflect local priorities which will save money and involve district and parish councils much more closely in making decisions

SCHOOL pupils in Lancashire are being given safety tips ahead of Walk to School Week, which starts on 17th May

CELEBRATE Adult Learners' Week this year by trying out something new with Lancashire County Council's Adult Learning Service

PARENTS and teachers are being encouraged to read road safety-themed stories to children as part of National Share a Story Month

PEOPLE who have gone the extra mile to bring people in their community together will be recognised at an awards ceremony sponsored by Lancashire County Council

LANCASHIRE County Council has been selected to show the way for other councils to help their residents beat the job-squeeze by introducing apprenticeships and training schemes

EMPLOYEES in Lancashire are being invited to put on their walking shoes and leave the car at home, as part of Walk to Work Week

STAFF from Lancashire County Council are among the first in England to complete a groundbreaking course enabling them to provide the best care for people with dementia

A CRACKDOWN on anti-social behaviour on Lancashire's public transport has been hailed as a great success

MORE than 400 young people flocked to a gala night to rival the Oscars at Park Hall in Chorley

A SCHEME that helps people in Lancashire to find out whether a trader will treat them fairly and honestly, is going from strength to strength since it was launched six months ago

OVER £600,000 from Lancashire County Council and Natural England will be pumped into the Adrenaline Gateway Project in Rossendale to develop new rides

YOU probably know how much you spend on food shopping every month, but do you know how much of that food you throw away and how much it's costing you?

YOUNG people in Lancashire can sign up for their chance to 'SHINE'

LANCASHIRE County Council's Trading Standards Service is concerned that used car complaints have topped the 'complaints league' in Lancashire for the fourth year running

WITH fuel duty due to rise over the course of the year, Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group is advising drivers how they can adapt their driving style to increase fuel efficiency and combat the rising cost of fuel

PRE-school carers will be attending an afternoon of road safety talks and workshops on Wednesday 24th March, hosted by Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group and Sure Start Early Years & Childcare Service

AS the spring sun starts to shine, motorcyclists are being reminded to make sure they fully prepare themselves and their bikes for the riding season

A FIFTH of young drivers are committing car insurance fraud by 'fronting' - and many are doing it without realising, according to new research

YOUNG people in Lancashire who are looking for exciting things to do can get free tickets for theme parks, ice skating, skiing or the cinema as part of a great activity giveaway running throughout March

SMOKERS who light up behind the wheel are being asked to stub out their cigarettes to help them stay safe when travelling on Lancashire's roads

THE next full Census of England and Wales will take place on Sunday 27 March 2011

LANCASHIRE County Council today revealed its promise to deliver the things that matter most to everyone who lives in the county

A FREE event is to take place later this month for people who care for a family member who has learning disabilities where they will find out more about a support group, called the Parent Carer Network

Private investment worth £5 billion and 40,000 new jobs will be created in Lancashire under plans unveiled by Lancashire County Council today

LANCASHIRE County Councillors have agreed to save almost £50,000 on payments to be made to councillors next year through its allowance scheme

YOUNG people who feel passionately about local issues and can speak up on behalf of others have been elected in the UK Youth Parliament elections in Lancashire

AN INNOVATIVE theatre production returns to Lancashire this month, in a bid to reduce road casualties among young drivers

THERE will be no increase in Council Tax from Lancashire County Council

PRESTON residents have the chance to quiz some of the county's leading politicians later this month

PEOPLE in Lancashire who have time to spare and want to make a difference in their communities, will soon be able to take advantage of new volunteering opportunities throughout the county

PARENTS in Lancashire are being reminded to make sure their children play safely this half term

BUSINESSES, schools and nursing homes across the county are being warned to watch out for bogus invoices that claim to be from directory publisher Yell in relation to its products and services

LANCASHIRE County Council's cabinet has promised to protect vital services for residents while reducing the amount of money spent on running its operations

LANCASHIRE'S new coroner's court and offices will be officially opened next week

LANCASHIRE County Council has pioneered a hands-on guide to support childcare staff when faced with drug or alcohol misuse in the families they work with

LANCASHIRE County Council has teamed up with the Government's Office of Fair Trading to tackle mail scams across the county

RESIDENTS in the Ribble Valley and Chorley are being urged to be on their guard against telephone fraudsters

LANCASHIRE County Council has scooped a national award for the quality of care services it provides to older people

DRIVERS in Lancashire are being helped to make sure their cars are roadworthy after official figures revealed that a third of cars fail their MOT each year

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards are warning that rogue traders are operating across the county in the wake of the big freeze.

THE danger of 'niche' tobacco products is being highlighted by Lancashire County Council Trading Standards officers and the East Lancashire Primary Care Trust.

FAMILIES and businesses in Lancashire could save money, thanks to an innovative energy survey about to take off in the county

LANCASHIRE County Council's trading standards team is warning people not to buy counterfeit tobacco which is being sold on the county's streets

Help Direct, Lancashire County Council's pioneering scheme that provides people with practical information and support, is introducing two important changes to the service that will make it easier for customers to get in touch

Lancashire County Council is looking for organisations that help people progress to employment through training and skills

Lancashire County Council's Welfare Rights team has issued a reminder to people receiving pension credit and certain other benefits that they may be entitled to extra money to help them with their heating bil

LANCASHIRE residents are being given the opportunity to have their say about future development of waste and mineral facilities in their area

Lancashire County Council has approved a £5 million boost for some of its most vulnerable children and young people.

PEOPLE in Wyre can get face-to-face advice on county council services thanks to new technology at Fleetwood Library

LANCASHIRE County Council and the police are warning people not to get drawn into the latest email scam

Lancashire's Love Food Hate Waste launches Freezer Expedition to seek out frozen foods

LEARNER drivers and friends and family who take them out for practice sessions are being given a free CD-ROM full of advice to help them pass their test.

PARENTS are being reminded to get a cycle helmet if they are buying their child a new bike for Christmas.

LANCASHIRE County Council is stocked up with salt and prepared for whatever this winter throws at its roads.

LANCASHIRE residents can start saving money on their electricity bills through a FREE council run scheme.

LANCASHIRE County Council Trading Standards Service has started pre-Christmas safety checks on children's toys by testing 15 types of soft toys.

THE festive sound of jingling bells will help to ward off crooks this Christmas thanks to a campaign to prevent thefts from handbags.

A NEW edition of a popular booklet that will provide older people in Lancashire with information on the benefits they can get, how to reduce their bills, where to get help and advice and much more, is now available.

More than 500 young people from all over Lancashire packed UCLan's 53 degrees for the first ever Celebrate YOUth! awards.

PEOPLE can now see full details of planning applications at the touch of a button, thanks to a new initiative by Lancashire County Council.

TWO reports are published today assessing how well Lancashire County Council serves some of its most vulnerable residents.

A LANCASHIRE environmental education resource for seven to eleven year old children across the county has scooped a prestigious Green Award.

Lancashire County Council's Fostering Service will hold an information evening at 7pm on Thursday, 3 December, at Thornton Primary School and Children's Centre, Heys Street, Thornton Cleveleys.

THE number of people who have died or been seriously hurt on Lancashire's roads has fallen considerably over the past decade, according to the latest statistics.

LANCASHIRE County Council has earned more national recognition for its efforts to tackle illegal sales of alcohol to children and young people.

DRIVERS, riders and cyclists in Lancashire are being encouraged to `Make the Difference' on the roads for Lancashire Day on Friday, 27th November.

Voluntary, community and faith sector groups are being invited to bid for grants of up to £15,000 to test out new initiatives to support carers in Lancashire.

CYCLISTS in Lancashire are being given tips on how to stay safe on their bikes this winter.

LANCASHIRE County Council is providing more than £200,000 to fund community activities across the county.

An awards ceremony aimed at celebrating the positive contribution made by young people is expected to attract 700 people to 53 degrees at the University of Central Lancashire

A NEW initiative is being launched to tackle under-age drinking and its potential adverse effects on local communities.

If you would like further information about flooding...

Parents and carers of children with special educational needs or disabilities are invited to "Talk 2 Me" a free event on Wednesday, 25 November, 2009, at St Anne's Parish Centre, Prescot Road, Ormskirk, from 9.30am to 2.30pm.

DRIVERS in Lancashire are being reminded not to be a bully behind the wheel as part of National Anti Bullying Week.

LANCASHIRE residents are being given the chance to choose which one of their local community groups should win a supply of energy-saving light bulbs.

LIBRARY users across the county will now be able to help themselves thanks to the installation of a new quick and easy to use self service system in eight Lancashire libraries.

The difficulties that children in care face at school were dramatically brought to life by actors at a teacher training day.

As part of a national campaign recognising the contribution made by the sons and daughters of foster carers, Lancashire County Council has sent a special thank you card to the children of the 650 foster carers in the county.

INFORMATION about schools, road safety schemes and much more is now available online at the click of a mouse at Lancashire County Council's new-look website.

LANCASHIRE County Council and parish councils across the county have been working even more closely together over the last few months.

LANCASHIRE County Council Trading Standards Service is warning consumers about the proliferation of potentially dangerous counterfeit hair stylers.

Children with disabilities and their families will benefit from a £7 million boost to short breaks in Lancashire

DO YOU have an inspirational life story to share? Or maybe an interesting hobby you'd like to tell others about? If you do you could become a living book for the day!

MOTORISTS are being warned of the dangers of driving under medication, as cases of swine flu continue to rise across the UK.

HOLLYOAKS and Strictly Come Dancing star Ricky Whittle is backing a free scheme to encourage Lancashire's learner drivers to get more practice behind the wheel before they pass their test.

Lancashire County Council directors are to share their award-winning get back to work schemes at a national conference.

FANCY yourself as the next Tarantino or Tim Burton?

Help Direct, Lancashire's pioneering scheme that provides people with practical information and support, IS celebrating its first birthday with a series of events across the county this week.

LANCASHIRE County Council Trading Standards Officers are continuing their spot checks on firework retailers in the run-up to Bonfire Night.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards officers are warning criminals engaged in loan sharking that there is nowhere to hide.

DRIVERS are being offered tips for staying cool, calm and collected while on the road by Lancashire County Council, as part of National Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday, 4th November.

ARTS groups in Lancashire are to benefit from new funding of nearly £8,500.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards Service is issuing a seasonal warning to retailers to ensure they sell fireworks responsibly in the run up to Bonfire Night.

AS the 6 November deadline for primary school applications approaches, education chiefs at Lancashire County Council have moved to reassure parents applying for places in Lancashire schools.

Lancashire County Council's Fostering Service has continued its improvement with a "Good" rating in its latest Ofsted inspection

LANCASHIRE county council has launched a website for people to see what they can do to help tackle the problem of climate change.

WATCHDOGS at Lancashire County Council have launched an investigation into how to make our roads safer for young people

CATCHING a bus in Lancashire is now much easier for visually impaired people, following the launch of a new 'Bus Hailer'.

More than 50 young people from across Lancashire came together last week to debate key issues with decision makers from organisations across Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Welfare Rights Service is urging people aged 60-and-over to phone a new helpline to check whether they are entitled to pension credit, council tax benefit and housing benefit following a change in the rule on savings.

LANCASHIRE school children are being given the chance to get their hands dirty and green up their school surroundings.

PEOPLE in Lancashire are being urged to 'rethink your drink' during Alcohol Awareness Week, which runs from 19th - 25th October.

A HOME Office crime map launched today which allows people to compare crime rates in their neighbourhood has already been available in Lancashire for over three years.

OCTOBER is Tyre Safety Month and motorists are being advised of the dangers of driving on tyres with insufficient tread depth, making them both illegal and dangerous.

LANCASHIRE County Council has welcomed a decision by MPs to back efforts to remove cigarettes from public display.

LANCASHIRE County Council has performed well in a public satisfaction survey for its highways and transport work.

Lancashire's Young People's Service is holding a special event – Celebrate YOUth! - showcasing the county's young achievers at UCLan's 53º venue in Preston on 30 November.

THIS half term, Lancashire County Museum Service has a frightfully fun programme of spooky Halloween themed events and activities to inspire and entertain all the family.

LANCASHIRE County Council's award-winning schemes to help people get jobs and boost the economy are in the running for yet more honours.

Lancashire County Council's Adoption Service will hold an information evening on 21 October at the Gujarat Hindu Society on South Meadow Lane in Preston.

PARENTS in Lancashire are being asked to turn over a new leaf and read their children bedtime stories with a road safety theme.

Young people in Lancashire can now log onto a brand new website developed just for them by Lancashire County Council's Young People's Service.

CRIMINALS will find it harder to burgle houses and use stolen cars thanks to new investments in camera technology and home security being backed by Lancashire County Council.

As part of a drive to recruit more adopters, a new telephone line will go live on 1 October, enabling prospective adopters to speak to experts at Lancashire County Council.

WHY not celebrate Adult Learners' Week this year by trying something new with Lancashire County Council and its Adult Learning Service?

A LANCASHIRE mum is getting on her bike after winning a competition in Roadlife magazine.

EMPLOYEES in Lancashire are being urged to put on their walking shoes for Walk to Work Week.

MEMBERS of a local group with severe physical disabilities have received accreditation for their skills gained during a woodland management project.

Lancashire's youngest citizens are set to benefit from a £13.5 million cash boost.

AN ambitious strategy to combat climate change in Lancashire is to be launched by John Healey MP, Minister for Local Government, at County Hall in Preston today.

FIVE organisations have already benefited from grants of up to £12,000 through the new Lancashire Community Grant Fund worth over £442,000.

PARENTS have the opportunity to find out more about “real nappies” and help break a record at a special event to be held on 27th April.

HELMSHORE’S Mills Textile Museum has been officially reopened following a £1m multi-agency refurbishment programme.

RECYCLING is set to become even easier thanks to new-style product labelling.

Lancashire County Council Leader, Hazel Harding this week cut the first piece of land at the Rising Bridge employment site project.

PEOPLE in Lancashire are being reminded that the early bird catches the worm or the Roadlife magazine in this case. The Rock FM breakfast team were so eager that they read their copy in bed.

EMPLOYERS should be encouraging their drivers to drink more water according to a new study.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Student Services is celebrating achieving Charter Mark status for a second consecutive year.

LOCAL people who find it difficult to access adult learning opportunities are receiving 'outstanding' support according to the latest Office for Standards in Education (OFSTED) inspection.

LANCASHIRE County Council has welcomed a Government decision to extend the mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance benefit to include blind people.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Welfare Rights Service is celebrating after being awarded the Government’s Customer Service Excellence Award for meeting high standards of customer care.

LEARNER drivers would rather practise their driving skills with dad than mum, according to a new study.

THE online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to share their views on Lancashire County Council activities.

DISABLED adults across Lancashire are to benefit from a new pilot scheme to provide travel training to help them develop their skills and confidence for safe, independent travel.

THE new High Sheriff of Lancashire will be officially sworn-in on Tuesday 7 April 2009, at County Hall in Preston.

THERE’S a tasty treat in store for potential pedal pushers this summer as the county council’s TravelWise team takes to the road.

PLUCKY young people who dared to enter the Lizards' Lounge were given their well-deserved rewards this week.

PARENTS in Lancashire are being urged to get involved with their children's road safety education following new research carried out by the Department for Transport.

PROPOSALS to increase the ceremony fees for marriages and civil partnerships at county council registration offices across Lancashire have been deferred – meaning the cost of getting married has remained the same for eight years.

THREE successful East Lancashire Business people have been awarded Champion status by the No Limits finance project.

EXPLORING the issues of body image and food across the school curriculum was just one of the many innovative ideas put forward by young people at a recent conference to launch Lancashire County Council's childhood obesity campaign.

IF you want to get involved in local government, but aren't sure how, a special event will help you to find out more.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards Service is warning consumers about contaminated beauty cream found on sale in the county.

CHILDREN across Lancashire are being encouraged to make their mum's day this Sunday by pledging to stay safe on the roads.

HISTORICALLY important documents belonging to The Football League are to be deposited with Lancashire Record Office in Preston and be accessible to the general public for the first time.

FRONTLINE social workers in Lancashire are being recognised for their professionalism and the invaluable contribution they make in improving the lives of adults, children and families who need support.

A poetry competition to be judged by the Poet Laureate, Andrew Motion, features on a new website helping schools in Lancashire and Cumbria celebrate St George's Day and explore the diversity of English identities.

STUDENTS from mainstream and special schools in Lancashire have worked together to create an innovative and exciting youth conference on the theme of 'Special hopes for the future'.

INDEPENDENT members are needed to serve Lancashire on the Standards Committee.

FRIDAY 13th is traditionally approached with dread by the superstitious, but Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group are warning motorists to be just as cautious on the 'unlucky' day.

PLANS for the M55 Norcross Link Road have taken a major step forward following a decision by the county council's Cabinet member for sustainable development.

NEARLY all children have gained a place at one of their three school choices in Lancashire.

THE Museum of Lancashire on Stanley Street, Preston has been chosen to host a national exhibition featuring the work of renowned British artist and designer, Abram Games.

A new Lancashire Community Grant Fund has been launched that will help people back into work, learning or training.

Looked-after children and care leavers gathered at the Woodlands Conference Centre in Chorley to enjoy a special evening of activities and presentations organised by Lancashire County Council.

THOUSANDS of pensioners across the county have received over £12m in extra benefits and tax credits over the last three years thanks to a project run by Lancashire County Council’s Welfare Rights Service.

LANCASHIRE County Council has been awarded the prestigious Beacon Status for working with and supporting older people in Lancashire.

A NEW training programme is being rolled out across Lancashire to help keep pre-school children safe on the county's roads.

Looked after children across Preston will benefit from a donation of books and games from customers at Borders Books.

LANCASHIRE County Council has received a three star rating in its latest performance health check.

MORE than 90% of county council services are meeting or exceeding their targets according to a government report.

Work to encourage links between Lancashire's communities has received a Beacon Status award for the high quality of the scheme.

THE online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to share their views on Lancashire County Council activities.

LANCASHIRE County Council is to launch a major project to test new technology which, it is hoped, will help increase safety on the roads.

SCHOOL children from across Lancashire have selected the shortlist for Lancashire's Children's Book of the Year award, organised by the county council's Library and Information Service.

LANCASHIRE County Council joined in the spirit of Fairtrade Fortnight to raise awareness of the scheme.

STAFF from the county council’s Library and Information Service have joined partner organisations and the local gay community in supporting this year’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) History Month at a special event at the Harris Library in Preston.

A NEW two-part motorcycle test will be introduced in April, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) has announced.

A GLOWING inspection of Lancashire's education service for sick children says it helps them 'rediscover a sense of belief in themselves'.

RESIDENTS are being asked to get involved in developing new guidelines for new quarries and waste facilities in the county.

A young people's representative from Pendle was given the chance to see the busy life of a local councillor during a visit to a community mental health centre in Nelson.

THE Highways Agency is following up on its highly successful Driver Information Programme for motorcyclists – Great Roads Great Rides – with a new interactive DVD-ROM.

A leaflet showing changes to Lancashire bus services has been produced for passengers.

A GROUP of silver surfers from a Chorley village have been praised by the Chairman of Lancashire County Council.

LANCASHIRE has so far escaped the very worst effects of the grit shortage according to senior engineers.

LANCASHIRE'S Trading Standards team has joined up with organisations throughout the county in a bid to save cash-strapped residents from the jaws of loan sharks.

HALFWAY through half term and already run out of things to do with the kids that won’t break the bank? Maybe you’re not looking hard enough.

AN IMPORTANT manuscript collection is to be housed at Lancashire Record Office, on Bow Lane in Preston, to ensure its preservation.

MOTORISTS are being warned of the dangers of driving whilst taking medication as coughs and colds continue to "do the rounds".

YOUNG people are to play a key role in helping to develop Lancashire County Council's Childhood Obesity Campaign.

PARENTS in Lancashire are being urged to make sure their children play safely this half term.

RESIDENTS in Lancashire are being warned to be on their guard for telephone calls from businesses claiming to be able to claim back bank charges.

LANCASHIRE County Council has set a council tax increase of 2.9 per cent.

LANCASHIRE couples who are planning to tie the knot can now get hints and tips from a new glossy civil partnership brochure produced by the county council's Registration Service.

A LANCASHIRE school cook has narrowly missed out on being named North West School Chef of the Year.

FAMILIES can enjoy a whole host of activities this half term that are fun, informative, and save you money.

LANCASHIRE County Council is using its power as a big local employer to boost the economy and help tackle unemployment.

SCHOOL children across Lancashire are to be shown how it's cool to be green.

Lancashire County Council has embarked on an exciting new campaign to recruit more foster carers to look after the County’s children.

KEVIN Mason from Euxton, Chorley, has scooped a national award after sharing his remarkable story in a “day in YOUR life” photo competition.

CHILDREN in Lancashire’s primary schools will soon be enjoying greener lessons thanks to an inspirational conference at Borwick Hall Education Centre in Carnforth.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Cabinet has set a provisional council tax increase of two point nine per cent.

PLANS for the Heysham M6 link road have reached a new milestone as the government awards the scheme 'Programme Entry' status.

RESIDENTS are being urged to become "scambusters" by blowing the whistle on con merchants this month.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s executive director of Adult and Community Services, Richard Jones, has been selected to sit on a new social work Government taskforce.

LANCASHIRE County Council has submitted an application bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund for a £640,700 lottery grant towards a £1.3million proposal to restore and refurbish visitor facilities at Museum of Lancashire, Stanley Street, Preston.

Youth groups from all over Lancashire have turned out in force to celebrate the county’s Youth Bank.

LANCASHIRE County Council is in the running for national honours that could see the authority heralded as an example to other councils.

LANCASHIRE'S motor traders are being warned to ensure the cars they sell are safe following a joint operation by Lancashire County Council and the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA).

Lancashire County Council is marking Private Fostering Week (which started on 19 January) with training sessions aimed at helping professionals understand the issue.

ONE Lancashire reader scooped top prize at a special ceremony on Friday (16 January) as part of Lancashire Reads and the National Year of Reading 2008 celebrations.

LANCASHIRE residents are being asked to give their views on how health and social care services are provided in the future.

PARISHES and towns across Lancashire will have a greater voice over county decisions with the launch of a new agreement.

A SPECIAL commemorative service will be held to recognise the wartime contribution of the Land Girls and "Lumber Jills".

COMMUNITY Car schemes across Lancashire are asking public spirited individuals to put their New Year's resolutions into action and become a volunteer driver.

LANCASHIRE'S leaders met Gordon Brown today to agree a vision of a bright future for half a million people in the county.

BBC Radio Lancashire has teamed up with Lancashire County Council's Emergency Planning Team and other organisations for a three-day campaign called "What If".

EXPLORING... Discovering... Learning... Enjoying... it's all waiting for you out there in the beautiful Lancashire countryside!

COMPANY directors and managers turning a 'blind eye' to the management of employees' driving for work could face two years in jail as new laws come into effect this month.

LANCASHIRE County Council has successfully put together a scheme worth nearly £1m to ensure that children without home access to IT don’t miss out.

LANCASHIRE County Council watchdogs have launched an investigation into the increasing number of children schooled at home.

THE Great British pint is to remain following an EU ruling that the country can continue to use the measure for serving beer.

A PRESTON boy has received a goodie bag full of high vis prizes to help him stay safe.

THE Leader of Lancashire County Council has praised organisations for their handling of the recent Rawtenstall gas incident.

Beating the loan sharks, competition prizes, readers' letters...with 70-plus stories, January's Vision has something for everyone.

LANCASHIRE residents can make a start on their new year's resolutions by resolving to recycle unused or broken electrical equipment.

LANCASHIRE County Council is inviting the public to nominate members of care staff, care teams or social workers who they feel have gone beyond the call of duty to improve dignity in care for their loved ones.

WITH the end of this year's festivities in sight, Lancashire residents are being asked to do their bit for the environment on the twelfth night.

A SURVEY by the county's Trading Standards team has found that householders could be unsafe in their beds as 58% of electric blankets tested failed vital safety checks.

Lancashire County Council young people’s workers have welcomed the latest government campaign to help parents tackle those tricky conversations about sex and relationships.

A NEW leaflet is available to local people to keep them up to date with changes made to bus services throughout the County in the New Year.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Road Safety Group is warning motorists to take extra care on the roads and to be prepared for all weather eventualities over the festive period.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards Service wishes to warn local churches and residents about a trader based at addresses in Oldham and Liverpool who has been making unsolicited visits to premises in the south of the county.

LANCASHIRE residents are being warned to be on their guard against dodgy doorstep sellers in the run-up to Christmas.

The Government has recently introduced a new benefit which may make more children eligible for free school meals.

A BAN on displaying cigarettes in shops will cut the number of young people who take up smoking in Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE County Council's finance chief is reassuring members of the Local Government Pension Scheme that their pension payouts will not be affected by the current financial crisis.

CROSSING patrols, school chefs, carers and highway workers were among the hard-working staff honoured at a recent awards evening.

FAMILIES across Lancashire who are setting off on a festive trip this December are being given tips on how to keep their journeys jolly.

LANCASHIRE County Council Trading Standards Service is warning the county's internet shoppers to be on the look out for fake games consoles and potentially dangerous adaptors this Christmas.

IN the run up to Christmas county councillors will be out spreading a green message across the county by giving out reusable bags to help people carry their shopping.

AN INTERACTIVE art website for schoolchildren, which is managed by Lancashire County Council, has won a children’s BAFTA award.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Customer Service Centre is currently experiencing a high number of calls from the public.

LANCASHIRE’S Road Safety Group has launched a new driver-training programme with the Army as part of a wider campaign to reduce the number of road casualties among ‘at risk’ groups.

Employers struggling with the credit crisis could find the support they need with a new apprenticeship scheme.

PIONEERING work to make young Lancashire's people aware of the perils of underage drinking has received national praise at the finals of the Mentor UK CHAMP Awards.

OLDER people and those with disabilities are receiving ‘excellent’ social care services from the county council which help promote health and well-being and increased choice and control, according to an official report.

HARD-HITTING films about youth crime made by young people in Preston have been given the red-carpet treatment.

CLEO (Cumbria and Lancashire Education Online) has been nominated for a BAFTA Children's Award in the Learning Primary category for its free, groundbreaking 'ArtisanCam' website ( www.artisancam.org.uk ).

ARE you looking for an extra special gift this Christmas? Lancashire's Road Safety Group could have the perfect answer – a gift voucher with a real difference.

Invitation to Lancashire Schools Dance Festival 2008. The Guild Hall Preston. Thursday 27 November 7.30pm

CONSUMERS worried about the ‘credit crunch’ this Christmas are being warned not to get bitten by loan sharks over the festive season.

DRIVERS, riders and cyclists in Lancashire are being encouraged to help ‘Make the Difference’ on the roads for Lancashire Day this Thursday.

BUS and rail passengers are being given advice on changes to bus services with the help of the handy 'Bus Service Changes' leaflet produced each month.

The Line to What Now? has been voted best helpline in the national BT and Telephone Helplines Association (THA) Awards.

A RESPECTED children’s author has praised the ‘well-crafted’ writing of children in a competition to celebrate Lancashire Day on 27 November.

SHOPPERS can find out more about greener ways to get around from TravelWise Lancashire whilst they do their Christmas shopping.

BE transported back in time and grab a coffee at one of the first ever motorway services as the Museum of Lancashire in Preston prepares to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the building of the M6 motorway.

Social enterprise Pathways Associates Community Interest Company Limited has received financial help from No Limits’ Business Investment Deals (BID).

CONSUMERS are being warned that their money could end up burning more than a hole in their pocket if they spend it on a set of fake hair straighteners.

CHRISTMAS shoppers in Lancashire are being warned not to chance cheap alcohol as new cases of counterfeit vodka are found this week.

A restoration project has crossed boundaries to provide a signpost into Lancashire’s Pennine past.

A multi-million pound programme to revitalise the county’s primary schools has been given the go-ahead.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Direct Care Services for people with physical disabilities and sensory impairment is celebrating after achieving a national Customer Service Excellence Award.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Road Safety Group is celebrating after receiving another Prince Michael International Road Safety Award.

EAST Lancashire is set to benefit from a £1.97million conservation and regeneration scheme that will preserve and improve an area of the South Pennines.

LANCASHIRE County Council has been shortlisted for national honours in the ‘local government Oscars’.

MONEY matters were under the spotlight today at Lancashire County Council with leading councillors looking at how the authority invests its cash in the turbulent financial climate.

THE FUTURE of Lancashire’s parking has taken a step forward following a review of the current arrangements.

A community building in Accrington is set to have its backyard transformed into a stunning haven for local people to enjoy.

LANCASHIRE Road Safety Group’s ‘Pre Pass Support Scheme and Perfect Partner CD-ROM’ has won another prestigious award for its innovative approach to road safety.

A Preston trade pet shop supplier has expanded thanks to Rosebud investment.

THE online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to share their views on Lancashire County Council activities.

ONE lucky amateur cycling photographer has earned himself first prize in a photo competition designed to celebrate cycling in Lancashire.

AS BONFIRE night approaches, Lancashire County Council’s Trading Standards are asking people to take care with fireworks.

Parents and carers of disabled children are invited to a series of meetings and workshops to share their views on the development of short break and respite services under the Government’s new Aiming High for Disabled Children programme.

LANCASHIRE residents in the north of the county are being urged to be vigilant following a spate of attempted distraction burglaries in the county.

A leaflet showing changes to Lancashire bus services has been produced for passengers.

THE Chairman of Lancashire County Council turned back time and turned over pages, when he visited a Chorley school.

A LANCASHIRE scheme to encourage the next generation of health and social care workers has won a top training accolade.

DISABLED people in East Lancashire have joined staff in celebrating Lancashire County Council's achievement in receiving outstanding results in Customer Service Excellence for its Direct Care Services for people with physical disabilities and sensory impairment.

AN extra £800,000 of benefit entitlements - including Pension Credit and Income Support - was paid out to Lancashire residents from April 2007/08 thanks to Lancashire County Council's Welfare Rights Service in partnership with nine district councils.

A LANCASHIRE scheme to encourage the next generation of health and social care workers has won a top training accolade.

HARD-HITTING films about youth crime are being made by young people in Preston.

PARENTS across Lancashire are being reminded of the important role they play in teaching their children about road safety.

OLDER people across Lancashire are soon to have their own “parliament”.

PARENTS and children are being urged to take extra care when the clocks change on Sunday 26th October as the nights and mornings will be much darker.

A NEW look website providing the latest information on Lancashire museums and events has been launched by Lancashire County Council.

TRADING Standards officers in Lancashire have welcomed new rules which plug a gap in unfair selling

WITH Walk to School Month in full swing, parents across the county are being given tips to help keep their children safe.

ARTWORK by young people inspired by the experiences of young soldiers in the trenches of the First World War is to go on display in Accrington.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards Service will be running free safety checks on electric blankets this November.

ROAD users are being reminded to stay safe this winter as the clocks go back with the chance to win a ‘Be Safe Be Seen’ Halloween goodie bag.

A Nelson based business supplying flooring materials has been able to relocate and expand thanks to Rosebud Finance.

LANCASHIRE businesses are being urged to sign up for an environmental event later this month.

LANCASHIRE County Council has pledged to banish carrier-bags from its services in the fight against plastic pollution.

NEW rules on energy efficiency have been introduced which will benefit house-hunters in Lancashire.

LORD Shuttleworth, the Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, today called on people from the local community to nominate voluntary groups in the county for a prestigious national honour.

LANCASHIRE has been named as one of the pilot areas for legislation that will help to protect our common land for future generations.

A MAJOR drive is on the cards to create an additional extra-care home provision places in Lancashire within five years.

GROUPS need to act fast to claim Lancashire County Council cash to help their community tackle climate change.

A NEW service to support deaf people across Lancashire has been launched.

LANCASHIRE County Council is advising people who use concessionary NowCards on local bus services to make sure they have their new card with them from 1st October.

MEMBERS of the public are invited to meet with members of a Joint Review Team which is examining how services for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs are arranged by Lancashire County Council and the three NHS Trusts in the county.

ONE of the North West's most beloved professional orchestras is thinking of changing its name in efforts to become more inclusive and to promote classical music more widely.

TWO high-profile visitors found out about ambitious plans to boost cycling in Lancashire when they visited the county as part of preparations for the 2012 Olympics.

LOCAL residents, aged 55 and over, are being invited to attend an information open day at Preston Flag Market on Wednesday 1 October from 10am - 4pm.

LANCASHIRE County Council is investing over £300,000 to provide new premises for the Coroner's Court and offices in Preston.

KEEN historians are being offered the chance to take a fascinating look back at Lancashire’s Prehistoric, Roman and Medieval history in November.

CHILDREN and young people who have a visual impairment or hearing loss are invited with their families, carers and friends to a free family fun and information day on Saturday 27 September.

STUDENTS returning to university in Lancashire are being reminded to give road safety some thought as the new term starts.

DO you know the name of your local county councillor? Who is the elected representative for your area?

THE FIRST locations for the exciting new outdoor play areas promised by Lancashire County Council have been named.

THOUSANDS of motorists are at risk of being fined up to £1,000 because they are unintentionally driving without a valid licence.

BUDDING cyclists are being given tips on how to stay safe by Lancashire County Council’s Road Safety Group.

VOLUNTEERS across the county are all set to find and record hundreds of big old trees as part of an Ancient Tree Hunt.

A GROUP of disabled people in East Lancashire has worked with Lancashire County Council in developing a new web site to improve information sharing, consultation, and to assist in shaping public services accessible for disabled people.

AN extra £4.1 million will be available over the next three years to support the growing number of carers across Lancashire who look after a partner, relative or friend, who is ill or disabled at home.

A new online prospectus to help young people find learning and training opportunities is being launched later this month.

LANCASHIRE County Council has topped performance tables for the fifth time running, confirming its place among the best councils in the country.

LOCAL people are being given the chance to carve out their own piece of history in the Forest of Bowland.

GREEN minded motorists have been helped in their quest to make an informed environmental choice by Lancashire County Council Trading Standards.

LANCASHIRE’S schools are leading the way in promoting healthier lifestyles among children and young people.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Road Safety Group has retained its prestigious government Charter Mark, which recognises customer service excellence to the people of Lancashire.

THE online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to share their views on Lancashire County Council activities.

SHAROE Green Library in Fulwood, Preston has reopened following a major refurbishment to transform services available to library users and the local community.

SUSTAINABLE travel to school is the message behind a drama visiting Lancashire schools next month.

LANCASHIRE County Council has welcomed a High Court ruling dismissing a legal challenge in relation to the Heysham M6 Link.

RETAILERS and consumers are being warned to be wary of fake vodka as a wave of counterfeit alcohol is detected in the county.

VULNERABLE householders are being increasingly targeted by aggressive fraudsters according to Trading Standards officers.

OUTDOOR play areas that give children fun, fresh air and adventure are being planned for Lancashire.

LYTHAM Library is to hold a community open day to celebrate the library’s 130th anniversary on Saturday 30 August.

YOUNG people moving to secondary school this September are being given advice on how to stay safe when term starts.

LANCASHIRE County Council is encouraging people of all ages across the county to take part in a 'never attempted before' reading challenge as part of the 2008 National Year of Reading campaign.

LANCASHIRE schools are set to benefit from more than £850,000 towards sustainable transport.

THE Lancashire Carers’ Forum is holding its annual conference for carers at the Woodlands Conference Centre in Chorley on Wednesday 10 September.

LANCASHIRE County Council has appointed a number of organisations to develop and provide the new locally-based Help Direct Gateway community support service across the county.

LANCASHIRE’S highways are set to benefit from an extra £5m from the county council.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Registration Service has produced a new glossy wedding information brochure to help Lancashire couples who are planning to tie the knot.

LANCASHIRE County Council has appointed Black Health Agency as the new permanent host for Lancashire’s new Local Involvement Network (LINk) to give people a greater say in how local health and social care services are delivered.

PARENTS across Lancashire are being reminded to set a good example to their children as part of a nationwide safety campaign.

AN appeal has been launched for people to sign up as school crossing patrols.

DO you live in or visit the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty?

A NEW leisure guide gives local residents inspiration for days out by bus around Preston this summer and beyond.

Lancashire’s young sailors recently celebrated individual and team success in the National Schools Sailing Championship, competing against 19 other counties.

Local Pennine Lancashire entrepreneurs have been chosen as business champions for the No Limits finance project.

LANCASHIRE County Council and Lancashire Museums Service are holding a series of events for food lovers across East Lancashire from Monday, 18 August to Sunday, 14 September 2008 to celebrate the Pennine Lancashire Festival of Food and Culture.

MEMBERS of the public will have a chance to meet their county councillors face-to-face during a forthcoming visit to Cleveleys.

PUPILS returning to school next month will notice an important change to the dinner menu.

PEAK time bus travel for people with disabilities will now be cheaper in Lancashire.

A NEW roadshow will help schools and the wider community to find out more about climate change and the best ways of combating it.

Members of the Traveller community from Lancaster have celebrated the first ever national Gypsy Roma Traveller History Month.

GAWTHORPE Hall is hosting a special teddy bears picnic for children and their families in August as part of the Taste Lancashire '08 celebrations.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Library and Information Service is offering budding musicians and rock stars the ultimate prize of their very own recording session, as part of its award-winning Get it Loud in Libraries project.

TURTON Tower is hosting a special teddy bears picnic for children and their families in August as part of the Taste Lancashire '08 celebrations.

LANCASHIRE County Council is offering a variety of fun activities across the county that are free for kids, informative and something the whole family can enjoy.

A glass design and manufacture business has been set up to be a cut above in Preston thanks to help from Rosebud Finance.

A commitment to the economic future of Lancashire was laid out at a recent cabinet meeting.

DRIVERS in Lancashire who are donning their cycle helmets to avoid rising petrol costs are being urged to make sure their cycling skills are up to scratch.

A specialist delicatessen with a strong Lancashire flavour has opened in Leyland thanks to Rosebud Finance.

The success of 22 Job Clubs has been celebrated at County Hall, Preston.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITY – Blackburn with Darwen, Blackpool and Lancashire County Council officially launch their fight against illegal money lending on 18th July 2008, County Hall, Preston at 2pm

CHEAP make- up is safe make-up according to Lancashire County Council’s Trading Standards officers.

THE car park at Lancashire Record Office at Bow Lane in Preston will be closed to visitors on Wednesday 16th July 2008.

Bamber Bridge is set for the fast lane now that new business, Preston Tyre Specialists Limited, has geared up ready for the open road.

LANCASHIRE County Council is working to help keep essential services up and running during a period of national industrial action.

THE deadline is fast approaching for the public to give their views on plans for the future of waste management in the county.

THE deadline is approaching for local community groups across Lancashire to apply for funding.

ROAD safety in Lancashire has passed a major milestone as the countywide Together We Can Make the Difference (MTD) initiative reaches its 10th birthday.

LANCASHIRE is one of the best and most picturesque places to get out and about thanks to its unrivalled countryside. But did you know that it is also one of the best in terms of access to the countryside?

ALL Lancashire councils are joining together for the first time to boost regeneration, increase quality of life for local people and improve the ways councils work together.

LANCASHIRE County Council is working to help keep essential services up and running during a period of national industrial action.

HOME Care providers across the county have joined Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Care Association (LCA) in signing up to the Government’s Dignity in Care Charter for elderly people.

LANCASHIRE County Council is making every penny count to protect frontline services and plan for the future according to new reports on money management.

DRIVERS with years of experience under their belts are being urged to consider brushing up their skills.

CHILDREN’S author Tim Lott has been named by Lancashire schoolchildren as this year’s top read.

A PROJECT to tackle the sale of alcohol and tobacco to children and young people in Lancashire has won a major national award.

LANCASHIRE residents who have fallen prey to loan sharks can now seek help and advice from a new helpline.

The Red Rose County will be going green later this Sunday (29th June) for a special FREE environmental event at Samlesbury Hall.

ROGUE traders and other con merchants in Lancashire and the North West are set to be thwarted by a new team of ‘Scambusters’ backed by £825,000 of Government funding.

It’s not too early to start thinking about next year’s school travel costs.

LANCASHIRE born Olympic gold medallist Jason Queally is one of a host of famous faces backing road safety in the latest edition of Roadlife magazine.

LANCASHIRE County Council, together with learndirect and the Prison Education Service, has developed a pioneering e-learning programme for adult offenders in prisons in Lancashire as part of the Government’s strategy to provide this type of learning in all prisons.

There was no doubt about the message last week when hundreds of schools throughout the county showed off their creativity: WOW!

CARE Minister Ivan Lewis MP today officially opened an innovative new community service for older people in Lancashire with mental health needs.

LANCASHIRE residents are being invited to make a small pledge to help the environment.

WILLIAMSON Park in Lancaster and The Shireburn Arms Hotel in the Ribble Valley have just been recognised for their excellence - its official.

Young people across Lancashire now have a new service which offers all the support they need to enter the adult world.

FAMILIES in Lancashire are being urged to ‘Make a change. Make a difference’ as part of Child Safety week, starting on Monday 23 June.

Barton Road Youth and Community Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month.

THE new purpose-built Burnley Campus Community Library will open its doors to the public on Monday 8 September 2008, and with longer opening hours.

LANCASHIRE workers are being urged to saddle up and pedal their way to work next week.

PEOPLE in Lancashire are being urged to get on their bikes this summer as part of national Bike Week 2008.

A NEW campaign is aiming to increase awareness of one of the most under-reported crimes – domestic violence.

FRIDAY 13th may traditionally be approached with dread by the superstitious, but Lancashire’s Road Safety Group are warning motorists to be just as wary of the 'unlucky' day.

LANCASHIRE County Council is calling on local businesses, public services, voluntary organisations and retailers to embrace the business benefits of actively employing a diverse workforce, including people with disabilities.

ASPIRING musicians will get the advice they need to be the next big thing by meeting with music industry professionals looking for local talent.

PARENTS and carers of children with special educational needs are full of praise for an information day held by Lancashire Care and Share Group, together with East Lancashire Primary Care Trust, at the St Peter’s Centre in Burnley.

THE online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

THE number of working days lost at Lancashire County Council has fallen thanks to tough new rules which have seen 86 employees dismissed in the last year.

AS surveys show that we spend less on Fathers’ Day than on Mothers’ Day, Lancashire County Council is offering the perfect FREE gift to show dads how much they are appreciated..

A COMPANY that will transform your attic into a usable space has been able to expand, thanks to help from Rosebud Finance.

THE Chair of Lancashire County Council praised the dedication of Lancashire soldiers, following their six month tour of duty in Iraq.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s website is proving a great success with over 3 million visits last year.

CARERS in Lancashire are being invited to take part in a series of residential weekend breaks at Lancashire College, part of Lancashire County Council's Adult Learning Service.

LANCASHIRE County Council is bucking the national trend in terms of public satisfaction and public perceptions of value for money.

VOLUNTEER drivers who help people across Lancashire get out and about have been thanked for their hard work by the county council’s Cabinet member for sustainable development.

THERE is a rare chance to learn vital skills to find your way round some of the Forest of Bowland’s finest countryside and get a preview of a brand new map as part of the Bowland Festival in June.

A LUCKY Roadlife reader has won a brand new camera, just in time for her summer holidays.

ROGUE builders, roofers and construction companies are being warned to improve drastically or face the consequences, following a joint operation by Lancashire County Council Trading Standards and Police Departments this week.

YOUNG people in East Lancashire are celebrating a £10,000 grant from the Lottery.

THERE’S a chance for cyclists in Lancashire to take a ride back in time to learn more about East Lancashire’s railway history.

LANCASHIRE County Council has scooped a national honour for introducing printers which are better for the environment.

BIKERS are being urged to make safety their top priority when riding on the county’s roads this Bank Holiday.

Now is the chance to have your say on proposed changes to the county council’s home-to-school transport policy.

LANCASHIRE is an even greener place after hundreds of residents helped themselves to tonnes of free compost.

THE drive to combat climate change has gathered pace with news that Lancashire County Council is joining forces with national experts on energy saving.

ARCHBISHOP Temple CE High School and Technology College will join 11 other schools at the 2008 Maths Challenge final after success in the latest district heat.

ROSEBUD is helping a children’s activity centre fund the bear necessities for its new project.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s outgoing Chief Executive, Chris Trinick, is among six new Deputy Lieutenants to be appointed by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE Adult Learning, the county council’s adult education service, together with Job Centre Plus and Sure Start, are holding a 'Pathways to Work and Training' event in Preston on Tuesday, 20 May.

SUMMER is the time to get out and about on two wheels and experience the best Lancashire has to offer scenery, countryside and heritage.

THE River Douglas at Hesketh Bank is to become the focus of attention for some of the country’s best architects as Lancashire County Council launches a search for an inspirational bridge design.

TWO of Lancashire County Council’s most senior members swapped their smart suits for bright red t-shirts at County Hall on Monday.

FAMILIES with young children in rural Abbeystead are to benefit from six new nursery places.

LANCASHIRE County Council Adult Learning will be hosting a series of free taster courses and events at Lancashire College, Chorley, and other venues across South Ribble as part of Adult Learners Week, which takes place from 17 -23 May.

TEN sets of broadband equipment from Lancashire are on their way to help African children learn to read and write.

FREE CD-ROMs are being offered in Lancashire as new proposals are unveiled to change the way learner drivers are taught and how parents can support them.

A BURNLEY Football Club supporter was on the ball when she entered a competition to win a signed Burnley shirt.

Hundreds of families in Lancashire have already discovered the rewards of sharing their lives with children who need a home.

THE Museum of Lancashire in Preston is opening its doors on Friday 16 May to host an exclusive screening of Nick Park’s Oscar® winning animation The Wrong Trousers and shorts of Aardman’s Shaun the Sheep.

A JOINT operation involving Lancashire Trading Standards and Customs officials has resulted in the seizure of more than 100 bottles of potentially lethal fake vodka.

LANCASHIRE consumers are being warned to be on their guard for dangerous children’s whistles sold on the streets in the North West.

MAY marks national Local and Community History month - with a series of events and exhibitions organised by Lancashire County Council.

LANCASHIRE County Council has become the first authority in the country to launch the new theory and practical National Speed Awareness Course.

SIMON Whaley was the star of the show this week - though it was an off-field performance that earned him the accolades on this occasion.

A number of Lancashire schools will be closed or partially closed on Thursday 24 April due to industrial action.

THE Museum of Lancashire in Preston is hosting an open evening on Friday 25 April, offering visitors a unique nightfall opportunity to view two special exhibitions which are currently on display.

THE new council year will see a new look for Lancashire County Council’s cabinet.

TRADITIONAL nursery rhymes and folk tales have entered the technological age, with a little help from Lancashire County Council.

A BID to make Preston one of the country’s top cycling destinations has received support from a senior Lancashire county councillor.

TURTON Tower museum will be presented with the prestigious Taste Lancashire Quality Assured award by Lancashire and Blackpool Tourist Board on Monday 21 April at 3.00pm.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Registration Service has launched a new web site providing a range of useful information for registering a birth or death, and for making arrangements for a civil wedding or civil partnership.

A SEARCH has been launched to find public spirited individuals with time to spare to help their local community.

SCHOOL meals are getting better than ever with 44 per cent more meat.

Preston stabbing of social care worker – unique and isolated incident

THERE’S a tasty treat in store for potential pedal pushers this summer as the county council’s TravelWise team takes to the road.

Lancashire County Council has issued a tribute to Steve Sinnott, the general secretary of the National Union of Teachers, who died at the weekend.

LANCASHIRE residents are being urged to try out a more sustainable way of travelling to work as part of World Health Day.

A NEW home care assessment and rehabilitation service for older people, people with disabilities and those recovering from illness, is proving a success following its launch in April last year.

PARENTS in Lancashire are being reminded of the importance of keeping their children safe as the school holidays approach and nights get lighter.

LANCASHIRE'S road safety experts are appealing to employers to make sure that work stress does not drive their staff to disaster.

LANCASHIRE County Council is taking part in a pioneering study into the impact of extreme weather on essential services.

THE leader of Lancashire County Council has been appointed Vice Chairman of the County Councils Network.

MORE children may now be eligible for free school meals.

RESIDENTS of Crawshawbooth in Rossendale are to benefit from a £495,000 capital investment programme to extend and refurbish the local library and youth and community centre.

THE English National Concession Travel Scheme starts on Tuesday 1 April 2008.

A head teacher from Lancaster has been appointed to Shuttleworth College in Burnley.

LANCASHIRE Police and the Trading Standards Service are celebrating a successful court result which resulted in the mastermind of a damp proofing scam being jailed.

LANCASHIRE needs “the correct solution, not the quick one” over post office closures, according to the county council.

A NEW guide is available to help parents through the financial maze of bringing up baby.

MORE must be done to tackle alcohol misuse amongst young people in Lancashire, according to a County Council task group.

THE Museum of Lancashire in Preston has joined the ranks of the London Eye and Hampton Court Palace after being named a Quality Assured Visitor Attraction by Visit Britain - the official site of the British Tourist Authority.

SCHOOL children across Lancashire are to perform at a sell-out concert at the Guild Hall in Preston on Monday (17 March at 1.30pm) as part of The Carnival of the Animals music education project.

A NEW High Sheriff for Lancashire will be sworn in at a ceremony at County Hall on Tuesday 8 April.

Pupils at Lomeshaye are looking forward to a healthy future, thanks to lessons learned in their schooldays.

The Lancashire Record Office on Bow Lane in Preston will be closed to the public on Tuesday 25 March 2008.

TENOR singing sensation Alfie Boe is returning to his hometown of Fleetwood this week for a series of open rehearsals and concerts accompanied by the Lancashire Sinfonietta.

STAFF at Lancashire County Council have marked Fairtrade Fortnight with a special banana-themed event.

A NEW library and information service has been rolled out in Dolphinholme, near Lancaster, giving the local Post Office and residents from the village and surrounding area a vital life line.

The Dolphinholme Rural Library Service is provided by Lancashire County Council within the local Post Office and village store.

RESIDENTS of Brookfield and Ribbleton and local partners have helped open the long-awaited phase one of the Eaves Brook Linear Park Cycle Path.

TURTON Tower is holding a special event to mark this year's British Tourism Week on Tuesday 11 March at 3pm to promote the importance of tourism to Lancashire and the UK economy.

LANCASHIRE County Council has been awarded the coveted Beacon Council status for its work on “improving accessibility”.

ADULTS with severe learning disabilities based at Lancashire County Council's Enfield day resource centre in Accrington are to benefit from a charitable donation made by Thwaites Brewery.

YOUNG people in Lancashire are making their voices heard by electing representatives to the UK Youth Parliament.

TOP parenting tips are being sought for a new booklet on bringing up children.

Lancashire County Council has appointed a new Executive Director for Children and Young People.

LANCASHIRE County Council has appointed a new chief executive.

LANCASTER Castle has welcomed some 'Royal' visitors this month as the Royal Mail launches its latest special stamp collection, "The Houses of Lancaster and York."

BURNLEY highway bosses are appealing for the public to be vigilant following a spate of ‘metal thefts’ in the town.

LANCASHIRE residents have been praised for their help in the fight against con-artists as ‘Scamnesty’ month comes to an end.

THOUSANDS of Lancashire County Council staff are being encouraged to ditch their cars and cycle to work.

ROAD users are being advised of forthcoming roadworks that will affect the A588 Shard Lane in March.

EASTER heralds the return of one of the north-west’s most popular rail scenic services.

ATOMIC Kitten star Natasha Hamilton is urging parents to lead by example when on the roads with their children.

LANCASHIRE’S Road Safety Group is offering free ice-scrapers to stop drivers using boiling water to de-ice their windscreens this winter.

LOCAL people are being asked for their views on the future of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

LANCASHIRE County Council is investing millions in highways, social care and the environment while still delivering an inflation-beating council tax increase of just 2.95 per cent.

MOTORISTS are being alerted to highway improvement works planned for The Crescent area in St Annes.

LANCASHIRE'S Registration Service has today launched a nationality checking service for members of the community applying for British citizenship.

COMMUNITY groups are urged to not to miss out on local funding for their community.

LANCASHIRE'S road safety team are appealing for people observing lent to give up one more thing - bad driving.

MOTOR traders in Lancashire are being advised to ensure the cars they sell are safe following a joint operation by Lancashire County Council and the Vehicle Operators and Standards Agency (VOSA).

PLANNING permission has been granted for the £105million Heysham M6 link road.

LANCASHIRE County Council has topped performance tables for the fourth year running.

SCHOOLS PE staff are putting the bounce into learning – even in traditionally academic subjects like the three Rs.

CONSUMERS in Lancashire are being enlisted to join the fights against scams as part of a country-wide initiative.

OLDER people and adults with disabilities will receive improved social care services following increased investment by Lancashire County Council.

HELMSHORE Mills Textile Museum is reopening its doors to schools this month following a million pound refurbishment programme.

The online and interactive version of Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

CHILDREN in care are to have a new champion to help them do better in school.

Lancashire County Council is joining a number of trailblazing local authorities nationwide in appointing a ‘virtual headteacher’ specifically for looked-after children and young people.

LANCASHIRE’S sweethearts are being urged to make their loved ones turn green this Valentine’s day.

Plans to reorganise secondary school education in north Preston have been approved by the county council.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Cabinet has announced proposals to create a new office in South Ribble.

MEET the youngest Lancashire resident joining the fight against waste – little George Patrick Colley.

A fresh vision for the future of Hameldon Community College in Burnley is being revealed today by Lancashire County Council.

AN investigation has started to find ways in which Lancashire County Council can increase extra-care housing provision for older people.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Cabinet members have recommended a below inflation rise to the county’s council tax precept.

THIRTY-ONE new children’s centres are set to open this spring to help young families all over the county.

THE Pukar Disability Resource Centre in Avenham, Preston, has played host to a group of education experts from universities and colleges across Europe.

YOUNG people with a shared vision for religious education and diversity have started a new pilot project in East Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE County Council is giving road users advance notice of two overnight road closures affecting the Whitebirk roundabout area.

SCHOOL children across Lancashire and Cumbria will be learning lessons from lions, tigers and elephants next term, thanks to an exciting new interactive music education project – The Carnival of the Animals.

DO you fancy being the next Bill Oddie, Kate Humble or even Davina McCall? If you do then Lancashire County Council might have just the opportunity for you.

 
LANCASTER
Lancashire County Council has listened to the residents of Lancaster district...

ACCRINGTON Library will celebrate its 100th anniversary on Friday 18 January.

AN anti-slavery exhibition organised by Lancashire County Council's Library and Information Service in partnership with the Youth and Community Service has arrived back at County Hall after touring Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE'S consumers are being warned to be on their guard for fake toys in the run up to Christmas after items worth £1,500 were seized in raids on shops in the county.

STAFF who fly the flag for Lancashire in Europe have won an award for being green at work.

LANDFILL sites across the country are gearing up to receive the peelings from more than £350 million potatoes, sprouts, carrots and parsnips from this year’s Christmas meals.

COUNTRYSIDE Rangers have come up with a wealth of reasons to get out and about more in the New Year.

PARKING attendants are handing out goody bags to promote winter road safety.

IT’S safe to buy toys for kids this Christmas according to recent tests by Lancashire Trading Standards.

LANCASHIRE County Council has produced a revised version of its popular information booklet '60+…benefits for you'.

PANTOMIME star Jack Ryder is backing a local campaign to encourage people to stay safe on Lancashire’s roads this winter.

LANCASHIRE'S consumers are being warned to be on their guard for festive fakes in the run up to Christmas after items worth around £25,000 were seized in one week.

LANCASHIRE played host to a recent national conference on the changing face of migration into the North West.

GOING into a care home and losing your independence is the greatest fear for people's old age, according to new research by Lancashire County Council.

LANCASHIRE County Council has been awarded top marks for money management.

BOSSES at Lancashire County Council are cautiously optimistic following this week’s local government finance settlement.

WITH climate change and recycling being at the top of many people’s agendas, Lancashire County Council’s waste experts have come up with some top tips for reducing festive rubbish.

BUSINESSES are being warned about the latest bogus invoice scam circulating in Lancashire.

Letters have been received by businesses in the county containing an unsolicited invoice for £376.20 from a telecommunications directory company called United Media s.r.o.

LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL’S Trading Standards service is warning Muslims planning to make the Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, to be on guard against unscrupulous tour operators.

LANCASHIRE residents are being urged to get behind a bid to “win the lottery” for a cycling and walking project in the county.

Corporate entertainment business the Sporting Shot has hit the bulls eye after converting a redundant building into accommodation and storage. The refurbishments were part-funded by a Rural Lancashire Development Grant.

EMPLOYEES at Lancashire County Council are being congratulated on their attendance levels between June and Sept - with 80 per cent of the 44,000 workforce scoring perfect attendance.

LANCASHIRE based premium-rate prize draw promoter has agreed to revise its advertising following discussions with the Office of Fair Trading.

YOUNG composers could win the career boost of a lifetime by entering the fourth Lancashire Young Composer of the Year Competition.

The voices of children and young people are being listened to by Lancashire County Council.

Chief officers from children’s social care services have met with looked-after children to find out how procedures can be improved from their point of view.

A NEW online and interactive Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

ASPIRING drivers can drop a big hint this Christmas by giving a friend or parent an extra special present.

ORIGINAL watercolours, screen prints and poetry from a group of talented young artists and writers are included in a new display at the Museum of Lancashire in Preston.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Road Safety Group is celebrating after scooping two prestigious awards.

BRINGING communities together is the theme for an international conference being led by Lancashire County Council and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).

LANCASHIRE residents are being urged to make it a ‘green Christmas’ this year by the county council’s waste minimisation experts.

A NEW trainee has started to learn the skills needed to preserve Lancashire’s historic records for the future.

LANCASHIRE leaders are urging people to have their say following the launch of plans to combat the threat of climate change.

A PIECE of land in Church that had been neglected for a quarter of a century has been rejuvenated as part of a major regeneration project.

BURNLEY'S Queen Street Mill and Textile Museum has been named 'best tour' by the Association for Industrial Archaeology (AIA).

Children and young people who face serious medical problems of their own have joined forces to raise hundreds of pounds for a cancer charity.

SCHOOL meals, care provision and road repairs will be joining up following a review at Lancashire County Council.

COMMUNITY groups are being urged to help Lancashire tackle climate change by applying for grants from a new £750,000 fund.

PARENTS in Lancashire are being asked to stay on their best behaviour with the launch of the DfTs CopyCat campaign supported by Lancashire County Council’s Road Safety Group.

A NEW online and interactive Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

RESIDENTS are increasingly embracing technology to access Lancashire County Council services, according to new figures.

TRIBUTES have been flooding in following the death of County Councillor Keith Tebbs, who died on November 5, from a long illness, aged 67.

Aspiring musicians will get the chance to show off their talent to record industry bosses looking for the next big thing.

A NEW Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire has been appointed.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards service is warning consumers about contaminated toothpaste found on sale in the county.

Reporters and photographers are invited to Lancashire Schools Dance Festival 2007

LOCAL councillors will have more say in a new £300,000 grants fund, announced by Lancashire County Council this week.

GROUPS across the county have benefited from grants of over £35,000 - transforming and improving the lives of older people living in Lancashire.

LANCASHIRE’S political bosses have come together in a bid to encourage closer working between councils.

LANCASHIRE’S dinner ladies are cooking up a recipe for success in a national competition.

Eleven school chefs from across the county are currently choosing ingredients and finalising menus in a bid to be named School Chef of the Year.

Lancashire County Council is looking for a new Executive Director for Children and Young People

LANCASHIRE County Council has received a grant of over £1.39 million from the Big Lottery Fund to extend and refurbish three of its local libraries as part of its YourSpace community project.

DECISIONS and discussions on big issues will be made at the next meeting of the Lancashire Local Chorley committee.

A COUNTY council watchdog is looking at the issue of speed management and wants your views.

THE LEADER of Lancashire County Council has joined district councils, partner agencies and local groups across the county to formally launch a 'blueprint' strategy for responding to the opportunities and challenges of an ageing society.

WILDLIFE fans can catch the Carnforth Connect Bittern Bus next Sunday to gain free admission to RSPB Leighton Moss nature reserve, as well as a fascinating free guided walk of the nature reserve.

THERE is an opportunity to learn the art of stone carving in the beautiful surroundings of the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty next month.

Lancashire County Council is introducing new policies to safeguard the sexual health and wellbeing of young people in its care.

HUNDREDS of vulnerable people who need support to live independent lives are being thrown a lifeline after changes to the way housing-related support is provided across East Lancashire.

THE latest link in a 56 mile route round the West Pennine Moors is to be officially opened on Tuesday 23rd October 2007.

GAWTHORPE Hall in Padiham is hosting a fun-filled afternoon of Halloween happenings and ghostly games.

PUPILS and parents across Lancashire are being given tips to help them stay safe during Walk to School month.

LANCASHIRE County Council today welcomed an Ofsted report into its fostering services.

RETAILERS are being urged to act responsibly in the run up to bonfire night by ensuring that they stick to the rules on firework sales.

CHILDREN with special needs can now enjoy the fun of singing and dancing to folk music, thanks to Lancashire Folk.

LEADERS in business and innovation will be flying the flag for Lancashire at a major European event this week.

HOUSEHOLDERS are being urged to be rubbish-wise as National Identity Fraud Week kicks off.

THE largest survey in the UK into attitudes to smoking amongst teens has revealed that Lancashire’s young people are the second heaviest smokers in the North West.

LANCASTER Library and its groundbreaking "Get it Loud in Libraries" project has won this year's national Love Libraries Award.

A SPECIAL meeting will be held at Lancaster Town Hall on Monday 15 October to drum up support to bring back to the city a rare 18th century bookcase made by Gillows of Lancaster.

A ROSEBUD company will be promoting its products during one of the UK’s biggest prime time shows.

Twenty schools in Lancashire are using a innovative new method to give attendance rates a boost.

Lancashire County Council is introducing a new, improved system to ensure that all children and young people across the county can gain the maximum benefit from their education.

A NEW online and interactive Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

Budding film-makers at a primary school in Burnley can start the camera rolling – thanks to an energy recycling scheme.

CHILDREN'S book favourite, Kipper the dog, is helping Lancashire County Council's Library and Information Service celebrate National Bookstart Day on Friday 5 October at The Mall St George's Shopping Centre in Preston.

A GROUNDBREAKING new approach to finding families for children who need them is being supported by Lancashire County Council.

COMMUTERS are being offered driving advice as a survey brands North West England the most hazardous region to travel in.

Health-conscious pupils at Pear Tree School in Kirkham have scooped a £1,000 prize for their campaign to bring good eating habits to the school.

LANCASHIRE and the surrounding area has been classified as a low risk area for foot and mouth controls.

Lancashire County Council has begun the search for a new chief executive to take on one of the most rewarding challenges in local government.

THERE will be a rare chance to delve into Lancashire’s archaeological past when the first Archaeology Day School is held in the Preston in November.

PARENTS across Lancashire are being encouraged to walk their children to school as part of International walk to School Month in October.

SCHOOLS across Lancashire will be learning more about sustainable transport in October thanks to a county council backed play.

A PARTNERSHIP has taken action to swat flytipping in a part of Preston.

ROSEBUD is to expand its range of loans to help innovative companies in the digital, environment and tourism industries.

LANCASHIRE residents are being encouraged to leave the car at home and try walking, cycling or public transport as part of European Mobility Week.

PARISH councillors have given the thumbs up to plans to boost their powers which could revolutionise the way local services are delivered.

CHILDREN at Crow Orchard Primary are celebrating after winning a prestigious countywide competition.

WORK to improve the M65 Junction 6 slip roads and Whitebirk roundabout are set to begin on 8th October.

HUNDREDS of Lancashire mobile phone users have been left with worthless ‘cash back’ deals following the closure of a major mobile phone dealer Dialamobile Ltd trading as Mobile Connections.

COUNTY council and police officers have pledged to continue their patrols to keep Foot and Mouth disease out of Lancashire.

MOTORISTS in Lancashire should take advantage of refresher driving lessons as a research survey shows that many suffer from ‘rusty driver syndrome’.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards and police officers have reacted swiftly to news of a new Foot and Mouth outbreak in Surrey.

NEW figures show that Lancashire is making good progress when it comes to combating truancy.

THE Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty will become an area of outstanding and beautiful art from 22nd October.

A PIONEERING new service that uses high-tech devices and sensors to monitor and support older people and those with disabilities at home is being rolled out across the county.

A PIONEERING new service that uses high-tech devices and sensors to monitor and support older people and those with disabilities at home is being rolled out across the county.

AS the theory test becomes tougher Lancashire’s learners and their friends and family are being offered a free resource.

MOUTH watering food and prices are available at a new delicatessen , ‘Food By Breda Murphy’.

EXTENSIVE building and refurbishment work is being carried out to improve the facilities at the Adult Centre at Whalley.

THE Chairman of Lancashire County Council has praised the work of a Lancaster animal charity following a recent visit.

LANCASHIRE County Council is supporting this year's International Literacy Day 2007, which will be celebrated around the world on Saturday 8 September.

A NEW online and interactive Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

ANOTHER innovative recycling service is being piloted in Lancashire thanks to a partnership between the county council and a major packaging manufacturer.

ROAD users are being given advance notice of a temporary closure on Adelphi Street, Preston.

MAJOR plans to shape the future of secondary schooling in Preston and Lancaster have been unveiled by the county council.

TWO companies that duped Lancashire businesses into parting with thousands of pounds have been wound up.

THERE is just one month to go before the minimum age for buying tobacco is raised to 18.

From 1st October 2007 it will be illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under the age of 18 in England and Wales.

RESTRICTIONS imposed following the recent Foot and Mouth outbreak are beginning to ease with some animal movements being allowed between farms and to slaughter.

IF you go down to the woods today, don’t drop any litter because the Friends of Brockholes Wood have been out and about on a cleanup day.

A GROUP of volunteers who help to keep one of Lancashire’s best-loved places in good shape are calling for volunteers.

VISITORS to one of Lancashire’s popular service stations will be getting a special “wake-up call” from pyjama clad individuals in the run-up to the Bank Holiday!

THE Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Lord Shuttleworth, has appointed six new Deputy Lieutenants to assist him in representing Her Majesty The Queen.

READERS in Lancashire are in for a treat as the new edition of Roadlife hits the shelves.

THE winners of a United Nation’s Global Road Safety Week competition have been congratulated by the chairman of Lancashire County Council.

A watchdog committee in Lancashire has set up a task group to make sure children and young people who experience mental health problems get a good service, wherever they live in the county.

TRADING Standards officers are repeating their warning about fake toothpaste after visits to businesses in Lancashire revealed the dangerous product could still be on sale.

LANCASHIRE’S motorists are being asked to think about their driving habits as a survey brands North Westerners the worst drivers in the country.

LANCASHIRE County Council leaders have hit back angrily at claims that a major new initiative to safeguard Lancashire’s environment is a waste of taxpayers’ money.

FARMERS in Lancashire are being urged to continue to obey the ban on animal movements by Trading Standards and police officials.

A future-proof 'masterplan' has been unveiled setting out the future projections, needs and aspirations of Lancashire's older people over the next twenty years.

LANCASHIRE consumers are being warned to be on their guard against the latest banking scam.

A NEW Code of Conduct has been adopted for county councillors and co-opted members.

Notice is hereby given that the county council on 24 May 2007, in accordance with the provisions of the local authorities (Model Code of Conduct) Order 2007, and Section 51 of the Local Government Act 2000, formally adopted a revised Code of Conduct for Members and Co-opted Members.

Young people from across Lancashire have been putting their heads together to find ways to help prevent climate change.

STUDENTS at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN) now have easier access to all libraries in Lancashire thanks to a new partnership agreement.

MOVES to raise the minimum driving age to 18 have received support from Lancashire County Council.

A NEW online and interactive Vision is now available - making it easier for people to speak out on Lancashire County Council activities.

A SERIES of financial drop-in sessions are to be held at local libraries and venues across the county to assist students considering higher education at college or university between 20-24 August.

THE NETWORK of children’s centres around Lancashire is growing.

THE Summer holidays mean fun times for families throughout Lancashire, but drivers are being warned against being driven to distraction.

ROAD resurfacing and associated works will be taking place on the B5259 Moor Street and B5192 Station Road in Kirkham.

Don’t forget to claim free school meals if you think your child may be entitled.

PARENTS who think their children may be entitled to an education Travelpass for school journeys need to check they have received their forms and sent them in.

EIGHTY young people from all over the county will be gathering next week to talk about how they’d like to see Lancashire County Council tackle climate change.

LANCASHIRE Museums Service has officially launched its arts and educational project – Abolished? – to raise awareness of the uncomfortable truth of Lancaster's historic involvement in the slave trade.

LANCASHIRE could see fewer traffic jams this week as commuters don their leathers for National Motorcycle Week (15 -21 July).

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards service is warning consumers about fake toothpaste which may be on sale in the county.

BETTER behaviour, raised self-confidence and improved performance at school were among the achievements of pupils who celebrated at Preston North End recently.

EDUCATION chiefs in a developing former Soviet bloc country are taking lessons from Lancashire.

More primary schoolchildren will soon be able to travel to school for free.

TODDLERS in Lancashire are set to benefit from a £6 million cash boost.

A NEW fascinating exhibition about how life was like for British people living under Roman rule is being displayed at the Museum of Lancashire in Preston from 14 July until 21 December.

SCHOOLS in Lancashire are looking to the future as they gear up to take their crusade for healthy living into the next five years and beyond.

A NUMBER of trees on one of Preston’s main routes are to be removed for safety reasons.

Conifer trees on the central planted area of Ringway, close to the prison, are to be removed during a series of evening road closures.

THE unluckiest day of the year is on its way, but the superstition could become fact for road users if they are not careful.

WELLIES and umbrellas were the order of the day as Preston held its annual Mela Festival celebration.

WITH this year’s Tour de France starting in London many people will be donning their cycle clips and getting on their bikes.

CLASSROOM inspectors should ensure that schools are making efforts to keep children healthy, according to county councillors.

TWO bridges in Preston are to be overhauled this July as part of a scheme worth around £500,000.

LANCASHIRE’S biggest employer has welcomed the smoking ban which comes into effect this weekend.

A NEW specialist role has been established to co-ordinate the planning and provision of social care services for people living with, or affected by, HIV/AIDS across the county.

CREATING and designing better places to live across Lancashire is the purpose of a new multi-agency partnership launched this week.

CHILDREN at a school in Skelmersdale celebrated in style when a special visitor turned up to officially open their new building.

LORRAINE Preisner from Broadgate in Preston has been named Deafblind person of the year at this year's national Sense Awards in London.

A WORLD of knowledge is now available at the click of a mouse – and comes with the chance to win a digital radio.

CHANGING the way many older people and disabled people receive practical support at home could help them become more independent, improve their quality of life and reduce bureaucracy, according to a new report.

A DROP-in consultation day is to be held to allow traders and residents to discuss plans for a £1.1 million scheme to replace a major bridge in Bacup.

STAFF teams from Lancashire County Council are celebrating after their workplace health and safety management system was awarded a much-coveted Healthy and Safety standard.

MUSIC recitals are proving a big hit for local people attending libraries across the county.

MORE must be done to improve run-down and vandalised bus shelters according to Lancashire County Council’s watchdog.

ONE of Lancashire’s rarest and most spectacular residents now has its own round-the-clock camera to provide wildlife fans with an exclusive view of its home life.

THERE is a feline theme to the birthday celebrations for Lancashire’s pioneering road safety strategy.

LANCASHIRE County Council's Crossways day centre along with South Ribble Borough Council are celebrating after being the first organisations to achieve healthy workplace status through the Health Works Award Scheme.

ADVICE and support were the key themes of a recent business event for budding entrepreneurs.

Over 80 people visited the Northern Lights Summer Spectacular Celebration at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston to see what support and advice was available.

ADVICE and support were the key themes of a recent business event for budding entrepreneurs.

Over 80 people visited the Northern Lights Summer Spectacular Celebration at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston to see what support and advice was available.

THE first step in minimising cost to the council tax-payer and guaranteeing fairness to employees will be taken this summer in a series of Lancashire County Council roadshows.

A multi-million pound investment in schools all over Lancashire is set to give them better facilities for learning and healthy living.

THE GOVERNMENT of far-off Azerbaijan has looked to Lancashire for help in the modernisation of its education system.

FIRE safety was the hot topic when a senior Lancashire politician spoke at a national event.

SENIOR county councillors have given their backing to a Government bill that could give new life to Lancashire’s communities.

SCORES of sales events have put Lancashire well on the way towards becoming the country’s largest Fairtrade county.

CHILDREN and families who have regular contact with social workers can expect higher standards of care and greater communication as set out by a new Social Work Customer Charter.

CHILDREN and families who have regular contact with social workers can expect higher standards of care and greater communication as set out by a new Social Work Customer Charter.

LANCASHIRE County Council are set to relocate their Burnley highways base in a multi-million pound development.

SOME of Lancashire’s most underused but heavily funded school bus services will be stopped...

LANCASHIRE’S electronic and telephone information service is taking off in a big way.

THE Lancashire Safeguarding Children Board (LSCB) has launched a dedicated website to promote and support the welfare of children and young people across the county.

ORDINARY people are being asked to help tackle the problem of young people and excessive drinking.

CAROL Mills joins Lancashire's biggest employer at the helm of human resources and faces the tough challenge of steering 40,000 people through the government's stringent change agenda.

CARERS across the county are to receive extra support following a multi-million pound package announced by the Government.

LUCKY school leavers in Burnley and Pendle this summer will have the having the chance to contribute one of Lancashire’s biggest and most prestigious building projects, straight after they finish school.

LOCAL people are to have their say on plans for the next stage of the Building Schools for the Future project.

GEMMA DEE from Rock FM’s breakfast show took a break from the airwaves this week to present a group of young people in care with The Children’s Society’s fourth annual AQA Achievement Awards.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s share of April’s council tax bills will rise by 4.95 per cent.

TEACHERS in Lancashire are being given an innovative toolkit to help make their pupils’ journeys safer on the county’s roads.

THE Leader of Lancashire County Council, Hazel Harding, has spoken at a national conference on ways to improve local government.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards will be enforcing a ban on bird markets following government precautions to prevent an outbreak of bird flu.

THE Leader of Lancashire County Council joined national political figures recently to look at increased community involvement in local government.

A NEW specialist police role has been established to improve community confidence in tackling crime and disorder issues that affect people with disabilities in Lancashire.

February may be cold and grey, but Lancashire countryside rangers are waiting to show you there’s still lots to discover out there in our beautiful county.

VACANCIES exist across Lancashire for volunteers to sign up as school governors.

EXTRA helpers are needed to work as volunteer drivers on the county’s Community Car Schemes.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Volunteer Service has marked the achievements of sixteen of the county’s finest volunteers at a special celebration event.

NEW figures show that Lancashire is recycling more than any other county council in the North of England.

SOCIAL inclusion, equality and partnership working must be at the centre of social care services, according to Lancashire County Council’s Executive director of Adult and Community Services.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards has backed moves to increase the age-limit for buying tobacco to 18, declaring it will help in the fight against underage sales.

CONMEN could prey on vulnerable residents by offering to do property repair work in the wake of recent stormy weather, Lancashire County Council Trading Standards Service has warned.

LANCASHIRE residents can now check their eligibility for receiving social care services and request a social care assessment at a click of a button following the launch of a new online self-referral web site.

WORK has begun to transform a piece of vacant and neglected land at Bradshaw Street, Church, Accrington to create a new park and playing field.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s road safety group are warning drivers to think about the weather before setting off on journeys.

COUNCILS in Cumbria, Lancashire, Blackburn with Darwen and Blackpool will ensure people get the chance to have their say on major changes being planned to frontline NHS services.

The areas’ health authorities are to begin consulting patients and the public next week on new proposals to reorganise outpatient services.

LANCASHIRE County Council is holding an information evening for people across East Lancashire considering fostering children and young people in care.

THE job description of a Trading Standards officer doesn’t usually include “performing in the dramatic arts” – but county council officers have been taking to the boards to impress the safety message on the county’s older residents.

WITH twelfth night here, Lancashire County Council staff are encouraging people to extend the season of goodwill by recycling their Christmas cards through the annual Woodland Trust scheme.

VANDALISED and run-down bus shelters could be preventing more people from using buses according to Lancashire County Council’s watchdog.

EVERYONE hopes for a white Christmas, but this year why not think about having a greener Christmas by reducing the rubbish that you send to landfill following the festive season.

RAIDS on markets and car boot sales in Morecambe and Clitheroe have led to thousands of pounds worth of goods including clothing, footwear and the latest DVDs being seized.

Lancashire’s schools lead the way in producing healthier citizens of tomorrow – and this month they had the chance to prove it to a national assessment panel.

A NEW accommodation block of 10 en-suite bedrooms at one of the North West’s foremost outdoor education centres was officially opened on Wednesday.

DRIVERS are urged to be aware of the dangers of driving fatigue and are reminded of the importance of thinking ahead when planning a journey.

OVER Christmas we will eat and drink more than at any other time of the year, as we all get into the festive spirit, with the peelings from over 350 million potatoes, sprouts, carrots and parsnips being potentially thrown away after the big day.

Lancashire County Developments Ltd (LCDL), Lancashire County Council’s economic development company, is harnessing up-to-the-minute technology to provide a bolder and more easily used website to showcase its activities.

DID you know that this year a billion Christmas cards will be sent in the UK?

LANCASHIRE’S new Fairtrade Network is aiming to help Third World traders - and make Lancashire into the biggest Fairtrade county in Britain.

EAST met west – geographically and culturally – when two community projects met up recently to swap ideas and share good practice.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Social Care Services for adults and older people have been awarded three out of a possible three stars in the annual national performance star-ratings.

LANCASHIRE’S waste experts have produced a special advent countdown in a bid to reduce the amount of waste created this Christmas.

THE Leader of Lancashire County Council, Councillor Hazel Harding has written to the leaders of the twelve district councils in Lancashire calling for all councils to work together to improve governance and services across the county.

SAFETY-conscious readers have the chance to win an exclusive early Christmas present courtesy of Lancashire County Council.

PENSIONERS across the county will benefit from more joined up services following a formal agreement signed this week between the Pension Service and the Council’s Adult and Community Services Directorate.

LANCASHIRE schools are being urged to apply for cash to set up “walking buses” for pupils.

The walking buses – that is, groups of supervised children walking to school together – reduce traffic, get children to school safely and play an important part in educating them in road-safety issues.

LANCASHIRE folk are more than three quarters of a million pounds better off, thanks to a campaign by Lancashire County Council’s Welfare rights team.

A NEW website is to help community businesses showcase their products and bid for contracts in the public sector.

CARERS who look after a relative or friend with a mental health illness are invited to take some time out from their caring role and get pampered!

A CAFÉ with a difference has opened in Preston.

LANCASHIRE'S creative industries have a new advocate to help them thrive and develop.

BABIES in Chorley are leading the way in recycling thanks to Lancashire County Council’s ‘Bottom Line’ incentive scheme.

WHO better to help create a website about alcohol awareness for primary school pupils than young people themselves?

COMPANIES are warned that new corporate manslaughter laws could leave them vulnerable to legal action.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards Service is warning retailers not to get burnt in the run up to Bonfire Night.

LANCASHIRE County Council is calling on people to think differently about adoption.

A PLAQUE commemorating Lancashire’s role in buying Spitfire fighters has been mounted on the wall of Lancashire County Council’s chairman.

RESIDENTS raised a glass to celebrate the official opening of Broadfield Care Home in Leyland recently.

A PROJECT to conserve and digitise important aspects of Fleetwood’s maritime history is now nearing completion and the new website created as part of the project will officially be launched by MP Joan Humble on Friday 10 November.

NEARLY every one of the one million pumpkins sold every year in the UK are used to create spooky jack-o’-lanterns to celebrate halloween.

WORK has started on building a new home to provide high quality residential care for older people in Preston.

PRESTON has won a top European award for encouraging more people to walk, cycle and use public transport.

DISABLED people who are eligible for the Council’s “Blue Badge” Parking Permit Scheme will benefit further following improvements to the administration system and the removal of the £2 application fee.

COUNCILLORS lobbied the government for more cash to maintain Lancashire’s roads at a forum held recently at County Hall.

WHALLEY residents will have the opportunity to find out more about the services provided by Lancashire County Council on Monday 16 October.

BUSINESS is blooming at a Bickerstaffe garden nursery thanks to a loan from Lancashire County Council’s economic development company, Lancashire County Developments Limited (LCDL).

A MAJOR new sports facility, bringing opportunities for improved health, fitness and fun to school pupils and the local community will be officially opened on Monday 16 October.

LANCASHIRE County Council has welcomed the Government’s new national advertising and recruitment campaign to encourage more people to pursue a career in social work.

RESIDENTS of The Fylde are being asked for their views on exciting plans for a new route for the A585.

PRESS INVITE: Press are invited to Westgate Primary School, Langridge Way, at 12.30 on Thursday 5 October 2007 to take pictures of the children with their bikes.

A major new sports facility, bringing opportunities for fitness and fun to school children and community users in Lancashire and the North West, has opened at Hothersall Lodge in the Ribble Valleys today thanks to an £80,000 award from the Big Lottery Fund.

LANCASHIRE County Council has decided to continue providing services for older people at three care homes following a review.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards has begun a renewed crackdown on mini-motorbikes after it emerged that many of them fall foul of product safety laws.

A JAPANESE garden is to be restored to its 1930s splendour in a joint project between volunteers, Lancashire County Council and Preston City Council.

The existing paper-based admissions system will continue. But the ever-growing number of computer-literate parents can now make applications online.

HELP is now available to get people suffering mental health problems back into the mainstream of society.

A BLACKPOOL based recycling scheme has won a top award for their environmental efforts.

LOCAL people have the chance to share their views on a new safety and road improvement scheme for the Adelphi area of Preston.

A NEW campaign from Lancashire County Council is advising residents where to stuff their junk mail - in their recycling box!

A LEYLAND based recycling project has won a major award for their efforts

AN exhibition opening this week at the Museum of Lancashire will give visitors the chance to win works by graduate designers tipped to be household names of the future

TRADING Standards are warning consumers about potentially dangerous bottles of vodka that could be on sale in Lancashire.

HELP is now available to get people suffering mental health problems back into the mainstream of society.

CARERS across the county who provide unpaid care and support for family and friends will benefit from a new multi-agency commitment and action plan for carers in Lancashire.

VILLAGES across Lancashire are celebrating after scooping awards in the Best Kept Village Competition 2006.

RESIDENTS in Lancashire have won top football prizes by scoring a goal for recycling.

During the World Cup Lancashire County Council rewarded residents who committed to recycling by making a “Rubbish Resolution”.

COUNCILLORS have come up with an ambitious plan to improve Lancashire’s top-rated libraries and make sure the service is fit for the 21st Century.

INFORMATION and advice for people with learning disabilities, their families and carers, will be available as part of the West Lancashire Learning Disability Awareness Day to be held on Friday 15th September at Ormskirk Market (09.30am – 4pm).

CENTURIES of the county’s colourful cultural history will be celebrated with activities from clog dancing to Indian cooking as part of Lancashire Libraries’ Local and Community History Month.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards are warning consumers not to fall prey to a new scam which aims to empty their bank accounts by claiming they have won the Spanish Lottery.

Officers are urging people not to be taken in by unsolicited phone calls or letters informing them they have had a massive win on the Spanish Lottery - even though they have not entered.

A LEYLAND firm is steaming ahead with the help of a Rosebud loan from Lancashire County Council’s economic development company, Lancashire County Developments Limited (LCDL).

Lancashire County Council and Preston Primary Care Trust press release.

CELEBRITIES from the North West and beyond are backing Lancashire County Council’s latest road safety drive.

THERE will be a chuffing great exhibition for train fans at Lytham Library next month as part of Community History Month.

VISITORS to Turton Tower, near Bolton, can have their say on museum facilities and exhibitions in coming weeks.

A SEARCH has been launched to find Lancashire’s greenest groups and individuals.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Trading Standards service is advising people who are experiencing delays in receiving ordered goods or a refund from ‘One TV’ shopping channel, to make sure their complaints are passed on to the company.

A SERIES of training sessions are being run for people wishing to work as Personal Assistants for people with disabilities employed through Direct Payments.

COUNTERFEIT goods and DVDs worth thousands of pounds have been seized from a popular car boot sale.

A NEW web business on Lancashire’s highest-tech business sites says it can net drivers savings of hundreds of pounds per year.

A NEW initiative aimed at bringing public transport thugs to justice is being launched in Lancashire.

BUSINESSES across Lancashire are being warned to be on their guard against faxed requests for financial information.

SAVERS and borrowers now have a third Hyndburn venue for their financial transactions.

PEOPLE in Edenfield and Helmshore are being asked for their views on a new library service for the area.

CHILDREN across Lancashire are joining a treasure trail – with the gift of knowledge as the prize.

CHANGES have been made to plans for the Heysham M6 Link following consultation with key agencies.

RESIDENTS at Boulsworth Hostel in Colne and Holmewood View Hostel in Haslingden are set to benefit from proposals to close the out-dated establishments and move into four new purpose-built houses within the local community.

BUSINESS across Lancashire are warned to be on their guard against traders who approach them selling fire extinguishers.

A PRESTON sporting group has received Royal recognition after being awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

A LEYLAND worker is gearing up to become more environmentally friendly by swapping his car for a pushbike with the help of a green-transport scheme.

CHILDREN and young people who go missing and run away from care across Lancashire are the focus of a new multi-agency joint protocol launched today at Lancashire Constabulary headquarters in Hutton.

LANCASHIRE County Council is advising motorists that temporary traffic lights will be in operation on Bacup Road, Burnley.

A group of young people in care from Morecambe and Lancaster have been working together to prepare for their futures.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s emergency experts demonstrated their quick thinking during a motorway accident on the hottest day of the year.

SERVICES for gypsies and travellers in Lancaster will be improved after the government announced new money for Mellishaw Gypsy Caravan Park.

ONE of Rossendale and Lancashire's best loved delicacies was on the menu to celebrate the opening of a new factory.

NUMBER games added up to a better start in life when pupils from four schools teamed up for a day of maths.

LIBRARIES are timeless – but they never stand still, as Rawtenstall library members know very well.

YOUNG people played the name game when a new one-stop shop opened for them on Kensington Road, Morecambe.

A BRITISH children’s writer, who regularly tops bestseller lists, has received the county’s top literary award.

PEOPLE with disabilities along with staff from the County Council’s Adult Social Services’ Marsden resource centre in Nelson have been celebrating the centre’s 30th anniversary.

LANCASHIRE County Council will take on more highway responsibilities from the start of next month.

FOLK in Rawtenstall are being offered the chance to step into the past with a historical guided tour through the town.

DO you know your samian from your slipware or your potsherd from your posthole?*

Two visitors to the Museum of Lancashire certainly do and they recently hit treasure during Museums and Galleries Month.

CASH help is available for groups of older people following a deal between Lancashire County Council’s Older Peoples Champion and Help The Aged with support from Better Government for Older People.

SHOPPING Channel-style techniques could be adopted by Lancashire’s top-rated libraries in a bid to boost reading in the future.

A ROBUST new offensive is being launched to aid public safety on the buses and at bus stops.

COMPLAINING about Lancashire County Council services has just got easier with publication of a new booklet.

Lancashire County Developments Ltd, the County Council's economic development department, has teamed up with Lancashire's Maths Advisers to support Lancashire Maths Week.

CELEBRATIONS to rival World Cup fever were in order when four young people from Clitheroe Royal Grammar School took top spot in the final of the Lancashire Schools Mathematics Challenge 2006.

LANCASHIRE County Council today announced that it is to discontinue with the consultation about the proposed closure of Maplewood House respite facility. This means the service will not close.

THE newly restored Lune Estuary Coastal Path will receive a fun test from the public following its official opening.

RESURFACING will take place between junctions 12 and 10 westbound following the appointment of a contractor by Lancashire County Council.

LANCASHIRE children are urging road users across the county not to leave road safety to chance.

LANCASHIRE County Council is holding a number of hands-on sessions helping residents to ‘Discover Composting’.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards has launched a new tool helping retailers to tackle problems caused by underage sales.

EMBRACING opportunities and enabling change was the theme of a presentation given by the Leader and Chief Executive of Lancashire County Council at a major seminar in London.

SERVICES for adults with learning disabilities in Chorley & South Ribble are set for further development thanks to the creation of a joint new team of health professionals from Chorley & South Ribble Primary Care Trust, Lancashire Care NHS Trust and Lancashire County Council Adult Social Services.

CARERS in Lancashire will be able to access a range of useful information and advice about local support to assist in their caring role via a new dedicated web site launched today as part of national Carers Week 2006 (12-18 June).

CHINESE government officials were welcomed to Lancashire recently by one of the county’s most senior dignitaries.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Volunteer Service has been celebrating the benefits of volunteering and thanking its 400 dedicated volunteers from across the county.

LANCASHIRE Trading Standards is launching a new tool helping retailers to tackle problems caused by underage sales.

YOUNG Lancastrians are spearheading moves to establish youth representation at top-level in governments across Europe.

With Bike Week just three weeks away, now is the time to get out the old bicycle.

COUNTY Councillor Wendy Dwyer has been chosen as Deputy Chairman of Lancashire County Council for the forthcoming year.

LANCASHIRE County Council’s Volunteer Service will be joining organisations across the country next week in celebrating the benefits of volunteering and thanking its 400 dedicated volunteers across Lancashire.

WITH the World Cup just around the corner, football fans are warned about fake goods in the run up to the finals in Germany.

A HISTORIC shield hanging ceremony will officially herald the new High Sheriff of Lancashire’s year in office.

Burnley mother of four Sobia Nawaz has been able to get back to work ten years after starting her family thanks to Lancashire’s Grants For Growth scheme.

A NEW report which points the way to more power being devolved to local communities has been welcomed by the leader of Lancashire County Council.

Lancashire County Council’s economic development department, Lancashire County Developments Ltd, has been working with officers from the Lancashire Rural Recovery Action Plan to really make a difference to the rural economy in the county.

A FORMER Burnley aerospace worker is flying high after being chosen as the Chairman of Lancashire County Council for 2006/07.

RESIDENTS raised a glass to celebrate the official opening of Favordale Care Home in Colne on Wednesday.

NEWLY promoted Accrington Stanley have received a civic reception at County Hall marking their return to the football league.

A LANCASHIRE county councillor is challenging people to tell him their views during consultation on a major review of mental health services in the county.

Lancashire County Council’s economic development department, Lancashire County Developments Ltd, has been working with officers from the Lancashire Rural Recovery Action Plan to really make a difference to the rural economy in the county.

The Lancaster District Final of this year’s Lancashire Maths Challenge held at Lancaster Royal Grammar School saw a packed audience of parents, teachers and supporters watch as teams from ten local secondary schools worked their way through a series of rounds to identify the murderer in a ‘Cluedo’ like scenario.

THE achievements of the North West’s premier ‘green thinking’ youngsters will be recognised at a special event.

SKELMERSDALE’S Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic High School are celebrating after a closely fought contest saw them retain their Chairman’s Challenge title.

MUSIC fans have an opportunity to see a classic opera performed in one of Lancashire’s most historic venues this month.

REAL ale enthusiasts raised a glass to celebrate the return of a bus service which is just the ticket for folks wishing to sample some of Pendle’s best beer.

THE Lancashire Sinfonietta is going from strength to strength at the start of its’ 11th concert season.

The Full Council will meet on Thursday 18th May at 1.30 pm.

RESIDENTS raised a glass to celebrate the official opening of Olive House Care Home in New Line, Bacup on Friday.

SCHOOLS from across Lancashire will go head to head in the final of the Chairman's Challenge.

RESIDENTS will be able to find out more about crime levels in their neighbourhood thanks to a groundbreaking new website launched this week.

HOUSEHOLDERS are warned about fake charity collections operating within the county.

FAMILIES will have a unique opportunity to beat bank-holiday boredom this weekend when the Museum of Lancashire throws open its doors for free.

A NEW leaflet which shows changes to Lancashire bus services has been produced for passengers.

Lancashire County Council has again joined forces with local cycle clubs to offer a series of guided cycle rides over the summer.

The website, www.fosteringinlancashire.co.uk, has been instrumental in the Council’s ongoing recruitment campaign in attracting more foster carers in Lancashire and in providing a range of useful information and advice about the benefits of fostering.

LANCASHIRE County Council has today announced it is to undertake a Formal Consultation Process to consider the views of children, parents and stakeholders following its proposal to close Maplewood House in Preston – a respite unit for children with disabilities - and Bowerham Road in Lancaster - a long stay home for children with disabilities.

Two of the Red Rose County’s most prominent organisations are celebrating after achieving the prestigious Investors in People award – just in time for St George’s Day.

Lancashire based business Engaero Ltd is growing – thanks to the Rosebud scheme offered by Lancashire County developments Ltd, the County Council’s economic regeneration department.

STUDENTS at Tor View Special School in Rossendale