A PROJECT aimed at linking every school in Blackburn and Darwen with a business has been backed by Home Secretary Jack Straw.

The Blackburn MP was special guest at the School Friends project, launched under the umbrella of the Blackburn Partnership.

He told an audience at Astley Bank, Darwen, that it was another example of the borough's pioneering approach.

"Unemployment here is now lower than average in the North West and the UK but 17 years ago the rate in Blackburn was three times that of other parts of East Lancashire," said Mr Straw.

"Blackburn has done better than other similar areas because the town has helped itself. There is now a real partnership spirit between business, the local authority and the community."

And he said the School Friends project, sponsored by Wolstenholme Rink plc, was an extension of the success already achieved.

Former shopping centre manager Allan Caster is project manager for the initiative.

"Businesses and schools are such an integral part of the community that the idea they should have close links may seem obvious," Allan said.

"But for various reasons it hasn't always happened. The School Friends project aims to break down any barriers and act as an informal service between businesses and schools."

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