IN the aftermath of the riots that rocked Burnley two summers ago, a major reason cited for the divisions between races in the town was the sheer separateness of their communities.

In short, the lack of mixing led to a lack of understanding and trust.

Since then, many efforts have been made to build bridges across the gaps in the community. And how heartening it is when they pay off, with new friendships being forged and mutual understanding and respect being developed.

For that was the outcome yesterday when youngsters from one of Burnley's most deprived wards joined members of neighbouring communities on a trip to the seaside for older folk.

Every year, the Brunshaw Action Group Project runs a coach trip for older residents of their community and encourages youngsters to help. But this year - backed by a grant that Burnley Police secured from the Rank Foundation - it was on a much wider scale, involving residents from other parts of the town.

The outing to the "Eclipse" show at Blackpool's Pleasure Beach proved to be not just a fun day for everyone, but, as project organiser Michael Bailey reports, it led to the breaking down of barriers between not only young and old, but also between different cultures and sectors of the community, with lasting friendships being developed.

It is the very sort of progress that deserves every encouragement.