A NEW freephone helpline has been launched in Blackburn to help victims of racial harassment.

The number -- 0800 138 1667 -- is a confidential advice and information service for people who may be experiencing harassment on grounds of race.

Police said that during the period from April 2001 to March 2002 there were 512 racially-motivated incidents, all of which they investigated.

Blackburn had 293 incidents, Accrington 124, Darwen 43, Great Harwood, 23 and the Ribble Valley 29.

The helpline has received European funding and will be coordinated by the Blackburn with Darwen Racial Equality Council. Blackburn with Darwen Council leader Bill Taylor said: "I am pleased to support the launch of this new freephone service, that will offer essential support for people who may experience racial discrimination or harassment.

"We live in a multi-cultural society which is vibrant because of its many different people. We want to live together in harmony in diverse communities, but unfortunately some people do experience problems.

"This helpline will provide a useful service to the people who need help, as well as help the Racial Equality Council get a true picture of the kind of issues people are facing in our borough, so that we can work together to tackle them and promote community cohesion."

Abdul Chowdry, director of the Racial Equality Council, said the new service would be an important tool in assessing the extent of racial harassment in the Blackburn area.