CHURCH workers are being given child protection training in a bid to reduce the threat from molesters and perverts.

Catholic churches in the East Lancashire area are taking part in the scheme, organised by the Salford Diocese.

Local parish workers are due to be briefed about the new 'safe from harm' guidelines during a training session at Mount Carmel High School, Accrington, on Sunday September 29.

The training is aimed at adults who work with children and young people, teaching them how to spot danger signs and what to do if they suspect abuse is taking place.

Church bosses decided to launch the scheme following a series of scandals involving sex perverts who have used the church to get close to children.

The guidelines have been produced by the Diocesan Youth Service.

Diocesan youth officer Bob Beardsworth, said: "We hope the training we give to the many good and valued workers within the Church will only improve the high quality of service we offer to young people."

Anyone who wants to take part is asked to ring Bob Beardsworth on Blackburn 395650.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.