A COLOURFUL leaflet encouraging people to explore Belthorn village and the surrounding area has been launched by Lancashire County Council's Countryside Service.

The Belthorn Heritage Trail leaflet has been written by local people, through the Belthorn village committee, and proceeds from its sale will be re-invested in the local environment.

It is the first in a series of trails which will link up to create longer walks.

County Coun George Slynn, chairman of Lancashire's planning, industrial development and tourism committee, said: "By working with local people the county council is helping to sustain our countryside and give a boost to local economies by encouraging visitors."

The leaflet is available from businesses in Belthorn village, tourist information centres in West Pennine Moors, Accrington and Great Harwood and Blackburn and Darwen town halls.