MEMBERS of mosques and churches in Burnley are to take a leap of faith and form a ground-breaking charity in a bid to unite the town.

The Building Bridges in Burnley initiative will stage charity events and supportother organisations committed to bringing people in the town together.

The idea for the group came in the wake of disturbances in the town a year ago and members of both Muslim and Christian communities have met regularly ever since.

Colin Wills, who was headmaster at Stoneyholme Primary School for 21 years before retiring last August, is co-ordinator of the project.

He said: "After the disturbances last year there was an impression given that the two communities do not get along. This is plainly not true.

"Building Bridges will help us talk to each other, work for each other and benefit everyone in the community." The charity already plans seminars on understanding Islam and understanding Christianity and hopes to stage a prayer vigil and collection for Middle East Relief on September 11.

It is also planning major support for a new St Andrew's Community Centre. including employing two children's workers.

The Bishop of Burnley, the Rt Rev John Goddard said: "This is an extremely exciting opportunity to play a very real part in helping bring different communities together.

"The opportunity to build trust between faiths and cultures can help make a better life for everyone in our town."

The organisation will have an elected management committee made up of representatives from both Christian and Muslim communities.

Talib Hussain, Mosque representative, said: "We genuinely believe Building Bridges in Burnley can make a real difference by promoting understanding of the two religions and cultures."

Building Bridges in Burnley will be launched at 7.15pm on Sunday, June 23 at St Andrew's Church and Community Centre, Duke Bar in Colne Road, Burnley.