GREEN pressure group Friends of the Earth is branching out into Rossendale.

The organisation has balloted its members on a move to open the separate branch.

The move follows complaints from residents that there aren't any environmental campaigners in Rossendale working to protect the area's wildlife and pollution issues.

Friends of the Earth campaigns on many environmental issues, including genetically-modified foods, transport issues and air pollution.

Leanne Gorman, a member of neighbouring Pendle Friends of the Earth, who has studied Aboriculture (tree science), said: "I moved to Rossendale two years ago from Trawden and was surprised that there wasn't a local group established here."

Leanne, 34, of Mercer Crescent, Helmshore, is also actively involved in Helmshore Waste Action Group, said: "Rossendale needs a local Friends of the Earth group to look at issues and any environmental problems which may not have yet been identified.

"We believe in giving ordinary citizens a voice in the fight to protect our environment.

"We are always interested to hear from people who would like to get involved. I have just sent off to Friends of the Earth headquarters to register as a group.

"It's easy to join, it's fun and it's good for the planet."

Brian Jackson, Pendle's Friends of the Earth co-ordinator, said: "Our branch has been bombarded with calls from people from Rossendale who want to see a local group established.

"People there are concerned about a host of things including water fluoridation, GM foods and air pollution."

Anyone interested in joining Friends of the Earth should call Leanne on 01706 216089.