THERE was a tearful farewell when Lancashire's Kosovan refugees waved goodbye.

The last 30 residents of the Kosovan village was set up by Lancashire County Council at Calderstones in the Ribble Valley, moved out last week to begin a new life in East Lancashire.

Kind-hearted folk from Preston were among the caring people from throughout the county who rallied round donating items, such as clothes and toiletries.

Doreen Pollitt, chairman of the social services committee, said: "The Kosova Project at Calderstones, managed by Lancashire's Social Services Directorate, has been a wonderful example of agencies working in partnership. I want to congratulate everyone in the preparation for, reception and care of the refugees we have cared for in Lancashire.

"The team effort has been really tremendous. Lancashire had the largest reception centre in the country and it is down to the hard work and professionalism of our staff that it was so successful.

"I wish all the Kosovan families that we have been privileged to work with well for the future, whether they remain here in Lancashire, move to other parts of the country, or return home to Kosova."

She added: "I must also pay tribute to the people of Lancashire who opened their hearts to the refugees.

"The generosity of Lancashire people was confirmed when we asked for help in May this year.

"All the clothes bicycles, toiletries and other essentials we asked for were forthcoming. I can assure people that any donated goods not used at Calderstones have been forwarded either to Kosova itself or to other agencies in need of them.

"Once again I must congratulate everybody who has helped make this project such a resounding success."

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