A FULL programme of after-school activities which aims to unite communities is being launched by Burnley Borough Council.

The Community and Recreation Services Playteam is running more than 20 after school and early evening sessions every week in the school term.

The sessions run for two hours and involve arts, crafts, games and project work.

The Playworks scheme runs on one day a week at Forfar Street, Padiham Youth Club, Ivy Bank School, Stonemoor Bottom, Hapton and Worsthorne.

There will also be two sessions a week at Burnley Wood, Kibble Bank, Holy Trinity School, Stoneyholme and Daneshouse, Stoops Community Centre and Sycamore Avenue Community Centre.

Joe Fallows the council's play development officer, said: "We are starting off with drop-in sessions, for children and parents to meet the staff and see what will be going on.

"Our service provides a safe and enjoyable place for children to meet friends in their local area after school, let off a bit of steam, and take part in positive activities."

The sessions are free, though children are asked to pay a registration fee of £1 once a term. A small charge will be made for special events like discos.

A council spokesman said: "Since Easter we have temporarily reduced the level of our play work during a period of restructuring.

"Now that is complete, the council is stepping back up to a programme on the same scale we have run over the last few years.

"The challenge is to carry on building relationships with other agencies so that our play work helps to improve the health, well being and safety of children and communities."

For more details about venues and times contact the council Playteam offices, Community and Recreation Services, 18-20 Nicholas Street, Burnley on 01282 477190.