PEOPLE power will be used to improve the quality of life in Blackrod.

A village association is to be established to help promote and improve the community, tackle crime and attract government investment.

The idea was proposed by residents, councillors, MPs, business leaders and police at a meeting held in response to a spate of vandal attacks and burglaries at Blackrod Cricket Club.

The club in Vicarage Road is facing a financial struggle after revealing six-month losses totalling £6,000.

Club secretary Pete Leonard said: "I think it is a good idea providing action follows words. Anything that helps beat these vandals has got to be welcomed. Lottery funding could be very good news for Blackrod Cricket Club."

Association members are expected to meet monthly to discuss issues and problems. It will operate independently from Bolton Council's Three Town's Area Forum covering Westhoughton and Horwich.

Local community groups will also be represented.

Bolton West MP Ruth Kelly confirmed plans were in place.

She said: "The association will bring together the various groups and associations and provide a platform for discussion to enable us to work together to improve the local community. It will also enable us to bid for lottery funding and other government money to support the activities of the group."

More than 600 people in Blackrod have signed a petition calling for extra CCTV cameras. The planned group has also been backed by Blackrod's Blackhorse Homewatch Association.

Town councillor John Seddon added: "Residents had asked for a meeting with Ruth Kelly and this was proposed. It will run independently to the area forum and hopes to get groups together to help each other out and apply for funding."

A consultation period will now be launched to gauge resident's views.

Details and finances have yet to be arranged.