A HEALTH boss today outlined the biggest post-war emergency operation in East Lancashire as the area braced itself for an influx of refugees from Kosovo.

David Peat, chief executive of East Lancashire Health Authority, said workers were pulling out all the stops to deal with refugees expected to arrive at Calderstones Hospital, Whalley, next Monday.

Calderstones has been on stand-by since last month to house Kosovo Albanian refugees and the thumbs-up was given after a top-level meeting at the weekend.

Mr Peat, who is co-ordinating the operation, said up to 300 refugees, mostly women, children and the elderly, would be housed at the former mental hospital for up to three months.

The temporary village will have its own school, shop, social club, medical team and mobile dentist.

Volunteers from the NHS, British Red Cross, Women's Royal Voluntary Service and Ribble Valley Council will work non-stop until Monday to make sure the site is fully equipped and furnished in time for their arrival.

Mr Peat He said: "We aren't expecting anyone with serious health problems. Most of the refugees will be suffering from the stress and trauma of being displaced and living under under canvas for several weeks.

"Everyone is throwing their weight behind this effort and I have been bowled over by the enthusiasm and willingness of health workers and volunteers to help the refugees."

An emergency appeal has now been launched for toys, good-quality clothing, baby equipment, such as cots and pushchairs, and electrical equipment, including TVs, radios and videos.

Donations of emergency goods can be made at the Travel and Local Information Centre in Railway Road, Blackburn; the Advice Centre, Salford, Blackburn; Jubilee House, Blackburn; all the area housing offices in Blackburn and Darwen and information centres at both Blackburn and Darwen Town Hall.

Lancashire County Council Information Centres at Accrington, Burnley, Nelson and Clitheroe are also designated collection points.

Items can also be left at Lancashire County Council Information Centres at Accrington, Burnley and Nelson Bus Stations, Railway Road, Blackburn; Market Place, Clitheroe.

People are being asked not to take items directly to Calderstones.

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