ROSSENDALE developer the Hurstwood Group has clinched a £550,000 project to build a new church hall.

Bosses at Rawtenstall-based Hurstwood, were special guests at the Trinity United Reformed Church, in Brownhill Road, Blackburn, to celebrate the sod-cutting ceremony, marking the start of work.

Managing director Stephen Ashworth and commercial director Dominic Fussell were guests at the dedication, which followed the usual Sunday service.

Mr Fussell said: "We are delighted to be involved in the project and it was wonderful to be part of such a moving ceremony.

"Members of the church have been raising money for their new church hall for some 20 years and the building will play a very important role in the community.

"You could tell from everyone's excitement just what the new building means to them.

"Now we are really looking forward to getting the project started. It will cement our reputation for quality build."

Minister Geoff Tolley led prayers before church elders cut the first sod to mark the start of the building project. He said: "The new church hall has been a dream shared by many."

The hall will be used by a variety of groups including a children's playgroup, brownies and a variety of other community groups.

The project is in addition to a number of schemes the company is undertaking in Rossendale, Bolton, Clitheroe, Blackburn, Burnley and the Fylde Coast.