A COUNCIL leader will next week call on residents to vote 'No' in the referendum on regional government.

Proposed changes to local government in East Lancashire will top the agenda at the Ribble Valley Council's annual meeting, due to be held next Tuesday.

And Coun Chris Holtom will use his leader's address to urge people to reject plans for a regional assembly, which would lead to the Ribble Valley either being carved up or swallowed up into a bigger unitary authority.

Coun Holtom said: "If regional government gets the thumbs-up, the council will be replaced by a larger all-purpose unitary authority.

"I urge everyone to attend the meeting and make their views known on this and a wide range of municipal issues."

Residents are asked to submit questions in writing to Michelle Smith, legal and administration manager, Ribble Valley Borough Council, Council Offices, Church Walk, Clitheroe, Lancashire, BB7 2RA, or by email to michelle.smith@

ribblevalley.gov.uk