A PRIEST devoted to helping drug addicts has been consulted by a government body about his work.

Father Jim McCartney, who runs Blackburn's THOMAS organisation, joined other delegates from religious organisations for a conference on dealing with ex-offenders.

Father Jim, of St Anne's RC Church, visited the Social Exclusion Unit at the Cabinet Office, London, for the briefing.

He said: "It is good to see the unit entering into dialogue with faith based communities.

"I firmly believe we are an important partner in the renewal of our nation.

"I am proud of THOMAS' achievements, we have a lot more work to do and I look

forward to the challenges that face us in the future."

THOMAS -- Those on the margins of a society -- aims to help former drug addicts rebuild their lives through rehabilitation projects.

It also provides hot meals for up to 50 people a day at a drop-in centre and last year set up a drama workshop group to teach school and college students about drugs.

They are also working with Preston prison to set up a mentoring scheme for ex-offenders.

Father McCartney's church was the victim of an arson attack last year.

Rebuilding work is currently under way to try and resume normal service after the blaze.