THE friends of Sunnyhurst Woods have received a cash boost as it was revealed repairs to their flood-ravaged beauty spot could take a year.

Almost £11,000 has been donated to the residents' group by Sure Start, a Government-funded initiative which helps child development, to pay for a new path, benches and picnic area.

But jubilation was tempered by the news that heavy rain since the June 14 freak storm had hampered the restoration project. It was first anticipated that the repairs would only take several months.

A 40ft by 12ft chasm has now been filled in and one of the two bridges has been repaired, but there is still damage stretching for three-quarters of a mile where 60 tonnes of rubble washed through.

The banks of a stream are being repaired along with all of the woods' footpaths. But as quickly as Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council engineers work, more rain comes along to wash their progress.

Dennis Gillibrand, chairman of the friends, said: "It's a massive repair project and we have to give praise to the lads about how well and hard they have worked, but we will be glad when it is all finished.

"It looks like the work could go on for another nine to 12 months. The floods are hindering the workmen. Water is rushing over bits they are repairing as soon as they get to them."

The repair bill is estimated to reach £100,000 and the friends' group have already launched a fund-raising drive to help the council meet the cost. On August 31 they will stage a street collection through the town.

Staff at the Olde England Kiosk in the woods are reminding customers that they are open for business.

They reported a drop in trade following the floods, even though the business was unaffected.

On August 20, a fund-raising evening is being staged for Famine Relief. There will be a beetle drive game, potato pie supper, bring and buy stall and tombola. Tickets cost £3.