Your view: UK economy stalls according to latest figures

The UK is moving a step closer to recession, according to the latest figures.

New GDP statistics - which measure how much the country is producing - show between October and December 2011 production fell by 0.2%.

The government says the figures are disappointing but it doesn't mean the UK is in recession.

There are warnings of an economic gap between different places in the UK.

Rochdale is one of the main towns in England which is struggling to cope with the downturn.

Ben Armstrong, 23

"Most of the colleges are here are really good and doing lots for young people. I'm working as a chef so there are opportunities.

"Rochdale is definitely going through bad times but I can't see myself leaving. It's home at the end of the day."

Emma Fittam, 26

"I manage a nail salon here and business has been steady. I think there's still a lot of local spirit here and people are working hard to make things better.

"We've got a new tram line coming and that'll be great for bringing in opportunities. We'll be more joined up with cities like Manchester."

Matthew Richards 20 and James Rose, 19

Matthew: "Everyone complains that we're on the dole but there aren't any jobs for young people. So you can't blame us for going on benefits as there's no other option."

James: "The metro link and tram won't make any difference. It's such a waste of money and could be spent elsewhere. They say it'll bring people in but who wants to come here? People will use it to get out of Rochdale."

Ryan Blackmore, 19

"There's nothing much to do here. It's really sad. When I used to busk I'd watch new places open up on the high street and then watch them close down again.

"All we've got are pound shops now as that's the only thing people can afford to buy from."