A GROUP which provides furniture for the needy is urgently seeking new cash to help it stay in business.

There has been a big demand for help from the council-backed Burnley Community Furniture Service, which provides quality second hand goods to low-income households, since a £3,000 Lancashire County grant got the scheme up and running this year.

Since September, the service has made 130 collections, delivered to 66 households and, in 26 cases, helped families with children needing considerable assistance.

The service - a partnership between statutory and voluntary groups - reports that current funds run out in March, 1998, and new backing is sought.

Burnley councillor Alice Thornber said: "The council is supporting this much-needed and valuable service as part of its anti-poverty work.

"Basic items of furniture make a house into a home, helping families and children to a better quality of life."

Donations of quality second hand furniture, beds with clean mattresses, washers and other household goods can be made by calling 01282 455005.

People in need of furniture should call into the Citizens Advice Bureau, Council for Voluntary Service, Burnley Community Advice Centre or other advice agencies who can refer them to the furniture service.

The service will be given a cash boost next week, with a £200 grant from West Pennine Housing Association.

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