WORK will soon start on an ambitious project to create a picturesque village green fit for the millennium.

The Hoddlesden Millennium Green Trust now has charitable status meaning its members can begin to raise money.

The group was set up two years ago to look into the possibility of transforming the old pipe works in Queen Street.

Since then Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has granted a 999 year lease on the land and Blackburn Groudwork Trust is supporting the project.

The aim is to landscape the area and create paths, plant trees and shrubs and commission a commemorative piece of public art. The trust has been given a kick start by Lancashire Waste Services Environmental Action Fund which has offered a donation of £5,000.

Every contribution made, up to £42,162, is then matched by the Millennium Green Commission and The Countryside Agency who are behind the scheme.

The group of trustee are now looking for businesses and members of the community to get involved.

Trust press officer Colin Queen said: "We want to create a recreational facility for the whole community. "A lot of effort has already gone into getting the project to this stage and we now need people to come forward to offer their time, professional services and financial support."

For more details call Mr Clark on 01254 704441, Mr Simms on 01254 704453 or Mr Queen on 01254 703431.

A newsletter will be sent to everybody who makes an inquiry.

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