AFTER reading your article 'Church Extends the Hand of Friendship' (February 8), I would very much like to express my views on the subject.

Last year a group of councillors from Pendle Council, including myself, were invited to a small community home in Nelson, housing six adults with mental health problems.

We were warmly welcomed by the staff, who were all highly trained in this field. We were impressed by the high degree of professionalism and care that the staff were able to give to the residents.

They are not dangerous or criminals and have every right to live within a community. The idea of people being locked away through no fault of their own is a thing of the past.

Please welcome them and allow them to enjoy life to the full.

If we all looked into our own families I am sure we could all say we have had someone at some time who has suffered a form of mental illness or learning difficulties.

And if you are invited to a housewarming party, my advice is go. You may be pleasantly surprised.

COUN DOROTHY LORD, Pendle Borough Council, Earl Street, Colne.

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