ORGANISERS are gearing up for a special youth conference aimed at tackling racism in Burnley.

The event, due to be held this weekend, will be one which turns the table on the authorities and gives young people a direct and honest voice about the issues of racism, identity and unity, organisers have promised.

Lisa O'Neill of Burnley Youth Theatre, who is one of the event organisers, said: "We are hoping that the relevance of Youth for Unity will attract hundreds of local young people and make positive steps in tackling issues of community cohesion.

"Not only is this an exciting opportunity for the young people of Burnley to get together to make a difference but it will be a brilliant social event for everyone involved.

"Youth for Unity, the Young People's Conference, won't be your usual boring gathering of people who just talk, talk, talk, there will be plenty of opportunities for young people to get stuck into arts and sports workshops, watch performances and films and as a thank you for coming they'll even get a free pass to a celebratory concert at Turf Moor."

Those attending the event will be given a free pass to the Sunday night concert.

A procession will leave Queens Park at 6pm and make its way to Burnley Football Club's Turf Moor ground.

The concert at Turf Moor will be a celebration of the whole weekend's events and will feature music from live bands and DJs. During the workshops children will get a chance to have a go at drama workshops, music workshops, street dance classes, stand-up comedy and a film workshop.

The workshops are being held on Saturday 19 and Sunday October 20 at Ivy Bank High School in Kiddrow Lane.

The doors are opened at 10.30am on Saturday. Free transport is being laid on from outside Burnley Library in the town centre at 10am and 10.15am.