COUNCIL chiefs in Rossendale have declared this year's postal vote a success after recording an increase in voters returning ballot papers.

Already more than 32 per cent of voters have now returned their ballot papers, compared to last year when 29.8 per cent of the electorate turned out.

Gillian Bishop, Rossendale's deputy chief executive, said: "Despite some teething problems with the printers we managed to get the packs out in time.

"In Rossendale it has been successful, despite the problems being suffered in nearby Bolton. The Valley seems to have got to grips with the postal vote."

Regional Returning Officer Sir Howard Bernstein said: "We had seen a gradual decline in turnout over recent years so the postal pilot has clearly had an impact.

"With four more days to go, there is still plenty of time to get ballot papers back either by post or by dropping them off at the assistance and delivery points." So far more than 15,000 ballot packs have been returned for the Rossendale Local Elections and more than a million returns have been received across the North West for the European elections.

Rossendale and Darwen MP Mrs Janet Anderson said: "I think this system has made it easier for people to vote and anything that makes it easier for people to vote is good for a healthy democracy."

In Rossendale, anyone requiring help can either call 01706 244506 or pop into the assistance and delivery centre at the Town Hall, Rawtenstall.

Ballot papers must be returned by 10pm tomorrow and the European Election result will be declared after 9pm on Sunday, June 13.