A first-of-its-kind event aims to help community groups address rural transport challenges in the east of England.

The Fenland Transport Conference 2017 is being held in March, Cambridgeshire, on Thursday, 12 October.

Called Shaping Transport in Our Community, it will bring together town and parish councils, schools, organisations, health care providers and local charities with transport providers and companies.

The one-day event is being organised by the Fenland Transport and Access Group (TAG) with support and sponsorship from train operator CrossCountry.

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It is aimed at anyone affected by or with an interest in local transport.

Delegates will discuss transport issues across the Fenland district.

They will be ble to share information and knowledge on existing transport services and explore ways in which community groups can work together to improve the local transport network.

It will also be an early opportunity to help develop a new transport strategy for Fenland as it works towards a neighbourhood planning transport guide being developed by TAG and CrossCountry.

Fenland District Council's cabinet member for transport Simon King said: "This is a chance for members of the community to learn from local transport experiences and expertise, and consider ways in which Fenland's accessibility challenges can be met.

"Developing a rural transport network that is integrated, accessible and affordable will help enhance the quality of life for people living and working in Fenland by improving their access to services, leisure activities and employment."

The event is being sponsored by passenger train operator CrossCountry, which supports a number of community rail partnerships.

The company said it was keen to assist with delivering local transport improvements.

CrossCountry business community manager Chris Leech said: "Good transport services are as important to rural areas as they are for larger towns and cities.

"They provide opportunities for leisure and business travel, connect communities, strengthen local economies and promote social inclusion."

The conference includes presentations from CrossCountry, the Association of Community Rail Partnerships and TAG members.

There will also be question and answer sessions, workshops and group discussions.

For more information and to book a place at the conference, contact Wendy Otter or Belinda Pedler from the Council's transport team on 01354 622318 or 622324.