BURY Law Centre has revealed a sharp increase in the number of asylum seekers in Bury whose applications are being rejected by the Home Office.

In one week alone, nine applications were turned down compared to previous figures of one or two a month.

Officials at the Knowsley Street centre say many of those seeking asylum in Bury are being blocked by twin barriers.

In a report, Bury Law Centre states: "People have fled from torture, imprisonment, and threat to life and limb in war-torn countries such as Rwanda, Congo and Zimbabwe in Africa. Kurdish people have come here following the upheavals in the Middle East.

"Many of these, who have been seeking their lawful immigration and asylum rights here, have hit the double barriers of the complicated legal funding system and the incredulous immigration tribunals."

The centre stresses this situation suggests many people still need support with finding access to the law.

Said John Nicholson, practice manager: "Often the volume of work overwhelms the caseworkers involved. As a result of funding cuts by the Government, many law firms are not taking on this work --which only increases the pressure on those who do, and only makes it harder for people to find their way through the maze of the immigration procedures."

He added: "Our own immigration solicitor recently gained a different post elsewhere and we are urgently seeking a replacement for her, full-time. At the same time, we need short-term assistance with the cases that are piling up. It seems as if the Home Office are deluging us with an August holiday period clear-out."

Mr Nicholson continued: "For the people involved, who are some of the most vulnerable in society, it is essential that support for their legal rights is maintained."

Bury Law Centre offers free legal help in such matters as housing, employment, immigration and asylum and community care. Those on benefits or a low income can get free independent legal advice, assistance or representation.

Mr Nicholson has joined Bury Law Centre from a background in voluntary services management. Recently, he became legally qualified as a barrister.

Rita Hardaker, supervising solicitor, has returned to the centre after maternity leave and specialises in employment and community care support.

Generally, the offices and phone help-line on (0161) 272 0666 are open between 9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.