CHILDREN packed a public meeting to ensure their voices were heard in the debate over a £1million facelift for their local park.

Major consultation on plans to develop leisure facilities at Victory Park, Barnoldswick, centred on options to provide a rugby pitch, cricket square or mini golf courses.

But 40 youngsters who attended a residents' meeting on the issue, had their own ideas on what was needed -- a mountain bike trials area.

Now, says local councillor David Whipp, the youngsters will be encouraged to develop their idea.

"The most exciting thing was that everyone agreed that if the kids wanted to achieve a trials area," he said.

"They were so enthusiastic so we should all help them do it.

"We will encourage them to take the lead in all aspects of the idea, showing us what they want, planning it and researching sources of funding.

"It is a tremendous opportunity to let the kids do it themselves," he added.

Around 90 people attended the meeting at Barnoldswick United FC where options for the park were debated in detail.

Funding, estimated at between £500,000 and £1million, could come from the National Lottery.

Options also under consideration are for a new rugby pitch and training area on the current pitch and putt course.

An alternative idea is a cricket square or creation of six mini golf courses on the pitch and putt course.

Each of these options would involve replacement of the pavilion building.