FAMILIES in Bromsgrove are being encouraged to ensure they stay "switched on" to life in their community.

Bromsgrove District Council has joined forces with Worcestershire County Cou-ncil, West Mercia Constabulary and Worcestershire Health Authority to hold a series of public meetings concentrating on local issues.

Called Bromsgrove Spotlight, the multi-agency get-togethers are being held to give residents a chance to have their say on matters concerning them.

At each meeting there will be presentations and a question and answer session.

Issues on the agenda include the future of Sanders Park and refurbishment of the Ryland Centre.

District council leader Cllr Nick Psirides (Con, Norton) said: "We are delighted to be able to join forces with our colleagues from other major agencies to meet the community face-to-face to discuss issues that matter to them.

"The meetings will give residents the chance to keep up to date with things which are happening on their doorstep and tell us what they think.

"People will be able to raise any matters they like."

The first meeting will take place next Thursday, November 29, at The Council House, in Burcot Lane at 7.15pm.

Further meetings are planned in Rubery, Alvechurch and Hagley next year.

Cllr Psirides added: "We all want to give residents what they want and the best way for us all to ensure we are doing just that is to ask them outright.

"We hope as many people as possible will take up the invitation to come along."