A CHARITY and a social housing group have teamed up to provide new work opportunities in East Lancashire.

Groundwork Pennine Lancashire has become a member of the Together Housing Group, which includes Twin Valley Homes and Housing Pendle.

They have worked on many projects together over the past decade, such as the Reach Out Youth Project in Darwen and the New Boundaries Fencing Project.

The new partnership will see £3m pumped into community projects this year and at least £1.7m a year after that.

Tom Miskell, chief executive of the Together Housing Group, said: “This is a natural progression of the relationship between the two organisations and is a huge boost for the people of the area.

“Lots of people have gained invaluable work experience and training over the past few years and many more will benefit.”

Peter Neill, executive director of Groundwork Pennine Lancashire, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for us to develop our sphere of operation.”