HOW would YOU change the face East Lancashire? There must have been times when you have despaired at our politicians and decision-makers.

Why don't they listen to what ordinary people want? If only YOU could come up with a BIG IDEA.

Well, here's your chance. As part of the Pride of East Lancashire campaign, the Lancashire Evening Telegraph and the East Lancashire Partnership are looking for an idea that will transform the area.

We want ideas which will make a lasting impression. Themes could include a performing arts complex, an extreme sports centre, a regional shopping mall, a dedicated business park for budding young entrepreneurs or a top-class tourist attraction.

If the concept is viable, specialists will work to turn it into reality. It doesn't matter if your idea will cost millions of pounds -- funding could be made available.

And for the winner, there will be a fabulous prize of a VIP dinner for two on a celebrity table at the Pride of East Lancashire Gala night with the winners transported from their homes in a prestige chauffeur-driven car.

All we want from you is a brief description of your idea and how it will transform East Lancashire and improve the lives of its 500,000 people.

The idea for the competition has come from the East Lancashire Partnership.

"Over the past six years, the Partnership has focused on economic regeneration and inward investment, " said Sir Bill Taylor, chairman of the Partnership. "We have worked hard to bring new companies and new jobs to East Lancashire and supporting those already here.

"We have helped to improve the quality of life for all our residents by supporting rural and environmental initiatives. We have drawn up transportation plans to provide accessible and affordable public transport.

"We are investing in leisure and tourism initiatives to proclaim the wonder of Lancashire's Hill Country. We have also worked with our universities and further education colleges in our common aim of lifting the attainment levels of our young people and retaining top-class students in our area after they graduate.

"However, I am sure there will be thousands of people with their own plans for East Lancashire. It doesn't matter how 'off the wall' an idea is -- quite often there can be something behind it that can be developed.

"Once we have established it could be viable, we would start looking for the finance."

The judging panel will include East Lancashire Partnership chairman Sir Bill Taylor and Lancashire Evening Telegraph Editor, Kevin Young.

Thisislancashire's special Pride of East Lancashire section...