EYESORE properties in Burnley are being given a fresh new look.

Young people working with the Youth Works initiative in the Burnley Wood area of the town have been painting boards which are used to board up windows on empty houses.

Project worker Beverley Worthington said: "A small number of streets within Burnley Wood have disproportionately high numbers of empty properties.

"These properties become an eyesore when boarded up and a danger when entered by young people, with many being damaged through fire or theft."

The Boards Project aims to improve the appearance of these empty homes and discourage young people in the area from removing the boards and going into or damaging the houses.

The project has been entered for the Lancashire Evening Telegraph's Grimewatch awards.

There are categories for schools, community groups, businesses, local authorities and individuals and all kinds of environmental schemes are eligible.

For full details and an entry form ring the Grimewatch line on 01254 678678 ext 244, send an e-mail to vcowan@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk, or send a fax marked Grimewatch to 01254 680429.

The closing date for entries is December 10.

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