A LONG-ESTABLISHED East Lancashire drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre,has moved to a new location in Pendle.

Holgate House has opened renovated premises in Barrowford after 15 years in Gisburn seven miles away.

It will provide up to 18 beds and is designed to help residents live independent lives whilst overcoming their addictions.

Established in 1998 by husband and wife team Bryan and Marlene Holgate. the centre also provides day care for recovering drug addicts and alcoholics,.

The move was supported with a six-figure loan from HSBC Bank after the landlord in Gisburn decided to develop the site and ended Holgate House’s lease.

The renovated premises will be fully open to clients by the end of the year.

Bryan Holgate, Director at Holgate House Limited, added: “HSBC’s financial backing and guidance allows us to continue to help people in our community.

“Holgate House began after my wife became manager at a private hospital and wanted to provide additional support for addicts looking to turn their lives around.

“As a family, we are committed to the cause and HSBC enabled us to make the first major step in what will be a bold new direction for the business.”

The deal was led by Alastair Woodford, HSBC Lancashire Commercial Manager and provided Holgate House with 100 per cent of the property value enabling the company to continue to provide services to both NHS and other clients.

Cllr Tony Greaves, deputy leader of Pendle Council said: “Drug and alcohol rehabilitation premises are needed in the borough as well as across Lancashire

“I trust this venture will be well run and not cause any nuisance to neighbours.”

Brian Heyes, HSBC Area Director for Lancashire, said: “The significant funding package provides Holgate House with the financial foundations they need to continue to provide their vital services.”

He added: “Holgate House is an ambitious business led by a dedicated and experienced family and we look forward to seeing them continue to provide support to their patients from their new premises.”