BUDDHISTS in East Lancashire are to take part in a national 24-hour prayer service to end the suffering caused by the foot and mouth crisis.

Over the next couple of months Kadampa Buddhists around the country are making special prayers. Today at 6pm Buddhists will begin a weekly 24-hour prayer service to help in this time of need. Losang Dragpa Buddhist Centre, in Pexwood Road, Todmorden, will be one the centres taking place.

Buddhist teacher Geshe Kelsang Gyatso said: "It's not just the animals suffering, many humans are suffering now so we have the opportunity to make prayers. If we do this then it will be very powerful and beneficial for the country."