COMMUTERS on the A56 into and out of Trafford will be given a graphic reminder of their civic rights on Monday (September 11) - at the start of local democracy week.

The leader of Trafford Council, David Acton, and a group of council staff will dress as giant Xs - to represent the vote - at Trafford Arch at 8am.

Town hall chiefs want to remind people to get on the electoral register. The Trafford Arch, which marks the boundary between Trafford and Manchester, will also carry large banners reinforcing the message.

Other events during the week are:

A 'chatroom' on the website hosted by a member of the council's cabinet, where residents can raise any issues related to the council's work. It is open from 2pm to 4pm each day - visit the website (www.trafford.gov.uk) for directions.

Launch of the Trafford Citizens Panel, made up of 1,100 people. The council will regularly ask panel members to give ther views on council services through surveys and other research.

The chairmen of the six Bolton area forums will spend a day looking at how the modernised council structure works in Trafford. They will also attend the Stretford area board on September 12, which is being co-chaired by a local resident.

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