NEARLY 2,500 children run away from home each year in Lancashire, and a new study puts it down to poor family relations.

The report by The Children's Society singles out poor relationships with parent as the main cause for children running away.

The report 'Home Run' published yesterday (Wed October 31) reveals that children who live in step-families are three times more likely to run away or be thrown out of home than those living in two-parent families.

The Children's Society findings have pre-empted a government report by the Social Exclusion Unit.

Derek Jones, head of The Children's Society in the North West, said: "Family relations are under most stress and in periods of family change and upheaval.

"They can often feel confused and isolated and for some children running can seem the only option."

The findings come in a series of reports as part of its Street Solutions campaign.

An estimated 100,000 children under 16 run away from home or care every year in the UK.

The society continues to campaign for a national network of safe places for young runaways.

The Children's Society aims to establish:

Family mediation services to help resolve tensions;

Targeted support for young people faced with a parent separation;

Advice and education on parenting skills.