ROSSENDALE rolled out the welcome mat for visitors from Lithuania who have formed links with St Paul's Church and primary school, Rawtenstall.

For the past two years the church has supported a Lithuanian orphanage with toys, clothing and teaching aids.

This week it played host to the children centre's director Jurate Zukauskiene and a specialist interpreter from the country's department of education.

They toured the area visiting schools and othjer places of interest and were welcomed by the Mayor of Rossendale Coun Mollie Disley, who exchanged gifts with the visitors.

They took part in the Sunday service at St Paul's before enjoying a meal with parishioners.

The visitors were asked about the special needs of the orphanage and explained they had to travel 15 miles to share use of the only computer in the area.

Vicar Peter Heywood said steps were being taken to provide them with a special going home gift to meet that need.

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