A FIRM from Accrington is donating play equipment and money to the New Era Centre in a scheme by Hyndburn Council to involve local companies in a bid for lottery cash.

Caligen Foam Ltd, based in Broad Oak, is giving £1,000 together with soft play furnishings which will go into the creche, demonstrating local support for the centre's cash request.

The council has approached 33 local organisations seeking aid to transform the building into a centre for all sections of the community.

A bid to the Millennium Commission for £1.3 million to develop New Era, currently used as a youth club by Lancashire County Council, is now entering the final stages of the race for money.

About 30 projects across Britain have reached this round, but only two-thirds will win grants. A partnership between the county and borough councils, the Asian Community Forum, Citizens Advice Bureax and the Council for Voluntary Service aims to breathe new life into the Paradise Street centre.

Their vision for New Era's future is as a venue for public performances, education and training, Asian heritage events and services, young people's activities and a base for advice services.

A Hyndburn Council spokesperson said: "We are delighted that Caligen Foam have offered us both funds and equipment for New Era.

"The development of the building as a community centre will benefit the whole of Hyndburn.

"Caligen's offer of support can only strengthen New Era's bid for Millennium funding, indicating the wide backing this development has in the borough."

Companies who wish to make a donation of money or equipment to New Era can contact Mary Ann Renton at the council on 01254 380121.

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