TWO hospital units were praised by bosses for their role in a 'healthy living' project - before being told it was to be axed.

Bosses had continued to fund the Health Promoting Hospitals scheme, which encourages patients to live a healthier lifestyle, even after the Government halted its cash support.

But the scheme, already abandoned in Burnley, will now be axed altogether as part of cost-cutting measures.

It means initiatives to encourage children to be more active and eat healthily, along with programmes to help adults quit smoking, will all fall by the wayside.

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust has tried to overcome a £5.5million debt with a package of efficiency savings. But seven months into the current financial year, and the debt has got worse - and could be as high as £6million by end of March.

Richard Gildert, the acting chief executive of the trust, said: "We have to do all we can to break even."

Hyndburn MP Greg Pope said: "I'm at a loss to where this debt has come from. We are seeing more money go into the NHS than ever before."

Blackburn Infirmary Ear, Nose and Throat Outpatients Department, which was praised at a meeting of the trust, has aimed resources at providing support and advice to patients looking to give up smoking, with particular emphasis on head and neck cancer patients.

Staff also back many national campaigns, such as breast cancer awareness, Healthy Hearts and Sun Safety, by selling badges and displaying information in the patient waiting area.

Staff also benefited from complementary therapy under the scheme.

And the Stepping Stones Unit, Haslingden, was also hailed a success for its excellent work with patients and families, with youngsters urged to take regular exercise with improvements to the soft play area and a small sensory garden and bird table.

Its menu was enhanced to promote the 5 A Day fruit and vegetables campaign and support is also provided for parents and carers with a monthly support group, counselling, social activities and a newsletter.