YOUNGSTERS from one of Burnley's most deprived wards have been helping to bridge gaps in the community.

As part of the Brunshaw Action Group Project, which has been supported by police, youngsters aged between 10-17 accompanied some of the older members of their communities on a trip to Blackpool to see the "Eclipse" show at the Pleasure Beach.

The project, which has attracted funding from the Rank Foundation, which provides grants for community projects, is designed to bridge the gap between older and younger people living in different communities while breaking down barriers.

The youngsters were responsible for looking after their elders on the trip, seeing them safely on the coach, ensuring they had a comfortable journey and making sure they enjoyed the show and meal.

Michael Bailey, project organiser at Brunshaw Action Group, said: "Every year we encourage the youngsters to help us with an annual trip for some of the older members of the community in Brunshaw.

"However, this year's trip was on a much larger scale involving members of neighbouring communities. This has all been made possible because of an award from the Rank Foundation which was secured via Burnley Police.

"Not only has everyone enjoyed a fun day out but barriers have been broken down, young and old have started engaging in conversation and lasting friendships between different age groups have developed." Superintendent Steve Hartley from Burnley Police added: "The more opportunities young and old are given to interact the better. It helps to bridge the gap between the different generations and develop mutual understand and respect.

"This is just one of a series of projects supported by us and funded by the Rank Foundation which are aimed at improving community cohesion not only between young and old but also between different cultures and sectors of the local community."