Rural communities must ensure they can play a role in the economy of the future or they face becoming "dormitories for the elderly".
That is the warning from the chairman of a group aimed at helping the Leicestershire countryside thrive.
Councillor Lesley Pendleton, from Leicestershire Rural Partnership, was speaking after a recent Government-commissioned report warned young people were being driven from rural areas by a lack of jobs and affordable housing.
The report calls for loosening of planning rules, better transport links and broadband access.
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Wondering when spring will come? Wait in warmth and comfort by joining old friends and meeting new ones at the regular monthly coffee mornings, held in Swepstone Church Hall. The next one will take place on Wednesday 17th March from 10.30 am to 12.00 noon. Admission is £1.00 for coffee and home made cakes or biscuits. There will also be a raffle and a Bring and Buy table, with all proceeds going directly to St Peter's Church. Everyone from babies to seniors will be given a warm welcome.

Bishop Christopher will be licensing the new Team Vicar, Karen Thomas, at St Peter's Church, Swepstone, on Tuesday 23rd March 2010 at 7.30 pm. The congregation all look forward with joy to this rare, unique ceremony. A light buffet supper will be served afterwards.