A FORMER church school in Accrington could be converted into a resource centre to benefit older Hyndburn residents if funding is found for a £500,000 initiative to go ahead.

Age Concern Hyndburn, Hyndburn Borough Council and Hyndburn FIRST are currently working together with the leaders of St James Church to develop plans for the transformation and to secure the necessary funding.

Plans for the proposed centre would involve the complete refurbishment of the two storey building in Cannon Street to provide a range of services for older people including health care, advice, exercise, training refreshment and companionship.

Council leader Peter Britcliffe said: "I am delighted that the Council and Hyndburn FIRST are helping our partners to breathe new life into this important building which has a long and valuable history in Accrington.

"It is essential that we do our utmost to improve the quality of life of Hyndburn's older residents and we shall work closely with Age Concern and St James' Church in helping to raise the funds necessary to bring these plans to fruition.

Patrick Collister, chief officer of Age Concern Hyndburn, said: "Extending the provision of services in this way will be a huge step forward.

"This proposal will enable us to work more closely with community groups and other agencies in addressing the needs of older people."