A COMMUNITY-minded team which has spent the past four years knocking on doors for the good of their neighbourhood was praised yesterday.

Maureen Craig and John Burrows were at the centre of a heartfelt tribute to members of Burnley's Accrington Road Residents Association (ARRO), as the group unveiled its new community office at the Howard Street Community Centre.

Performing the ribbon-cutting duties at the office in Tay Street, Burnley Councillor Carole Galbraith said ARRO had worked hard to make sure the area benefited from extra cash being pumped into the town in the wake of the riots in June 2001.

Coun Galbraith said: "As with many community groups and voluntary organisations, the bulk of the work and worry falls onto the shoulders of a small number of exceptional residents.

"I am sure residents of this are would wish me to acknowledge that this burden has fallen mainly on Maureen and John.

"They have been tenacious in the pursuit of the community's vision for this area."

During the past four years the area has seen demolition projects, but the group has built a community garden and are in the process of planning a 'Home Zone'.

This give residents the chance to decide what they want in the neighbourhood.

The Primary Care Trust has also provided a community worker, community nurse and dentist, while voluntary group the Community Alliance has provided area workers to help residents gain as many benefits as possible for the area.

Coun Galbraith went on: "Accrington Road residents have not been afraid to knock on doors and, when necessary, knock them down in the hallowed halls of the town hall, police station and in the Primary Care Trust.

"Over the last four years they have worked in partnership with many local agencies.

"They have gained widespread recognition and respect for the work they have done in bringing people together with the sole purpose of improving the quality of life for people here."