CHURCH members hope to prove the pen is mightier than the sword by writing letters to foreign leaders on behalf of prisoners of conscience.

Members of churches in Clitheroe have joined forces to form the town's first Amnesty International group.

They are getting together every couple of months to write letters on behalf of prisoners under threat of torture or being held without trial in countries all over the world.

They meet at the home of John and Ann Beard in Kemple View, Clitheroe, and have received a £260 donation from Waddington Methodist Church to start their work.

Member John Garner said: "The group has been set up by Christians in Clitheroe who want to do something for human rights.

"We will be writing letters of support to prisoners of conscience and lobbying Governments who are mistreating such prisoners."

Amnesty International campaigns on behalf of prisoners of conscience, regardless of race, class or religion.

The Clitheroe group next meets on June 16.

Anyone interested can contact John Garner on 01200 424206 or Ann Beard on 01200 428049 for further details.

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