A CHARITY has launched a major appeal to help deal with the rising tide of drug addicts and homeless people arriving on its doorstep in need of help.

The Blackburn-based Thomas group (Those On The Margins of Society) hopes to raise £20,000 to pay for a move to a bigger building after up to 80 people a day began turning up at its drop in centre wanting a meal or shelter.

Thomas runs the centre at St Anne's House near Blackburn town centre.

It claims a huge rise in drug abuse in the town means has made it desperate for extra backing.

Demand for shelter for a few hours and a warm meal has grown so much over the last two years the group now needs a bigger building. It hopes to move to the old Wesley Hall, Feilden Street, which has been renamed the Wesley Hall building.

Father Jim McCartney, a director of Thomas, said: "We are now longer able to accommodate all the people who attend our centre.

"St Anne's Drop In Centre has now become to small to deal with many the many people who come each day for help."

He added: "The Path Way will be a new drop in centre for people in need.

"We will be open seven days a week and and will provide food, a place to meet, washing facilities as well as advice and help for those who need it."

Thomas are also hoping to set up a rehabilitation centre called the Hope Unit at the new premises. A befriending scheme for people trying to come off drugs will be organised along with a flat offering a safe place for people on rehabilitation.

Father Jim added: "St Anne's is already helping people with drug problems but we need financial help so that we can help more.

"We are already helping several people to turn away away from drugs and crime."

Cheques can be sent to: Thomas, St Anne's House, France Street, Blackburn, BB2 1LX.

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