CHILDREN in Burnley will be able to make the most of play thanks to a series of sessions launched by Burnley Council.

Children aged five to 13 are invited to join in the fun at the new play sessions to be run by playworkers who have organised string of activities to take place in Burnley from today.

The sessions are to be held at five venues across the town, with financial support from the Lancashire Children's Fund.

A partnership between the council, schools and local residents' groups have helped launch the scheme.

Most of the after school and early evening sessions will be run in school halls, such as St Peter's and St Catherine's. Other activities will be held in community run venues including The Cabin, Venice Avenue, Burnley.

Coun Rafique Malik, Burnley's executive member for social welfare, welcomed the expansion to the council's service.

Coun Malik said: "This is great news for children and families. Each week in school term time, our play workers now run nearly 40 sessions of safe, constructive play across the borough. Activities run from Hapton to Stoneyholme, and from Worsthorne to Stoops and Hargher Clough."

Joe Fallows, play and development officer, added: "The sessions last two hours and include a mixture of games, arts and crafts and run around active play.

"Children pay £1 each term to register. Most sessions are then free, and at other sites a small donation each sessions helps with costs for refreshments and equipment."

More details can be obtained by calling the council on 01282 425011 or 477190.