COUNCILLORS are being urged to give their backing to an anti-racism campaign in Burnley.

Challenge fund cash could be used to pay for production and distribution of posters and leaflets, and a scheme to teach local organisations about race equality.

Burnley council's bid for European money to fund a big campaign was unsuccessful, but there is still £4,400 in the kitty.

A consultative committee has concluded that a scaled-down effort would be of benefit. A council report says: "A range of nationally produced materials have been considered, but it was felt that a local initiative, with, for example, posters that relate directly to Burnley, would be preferred.

"It was also felt that training on an inter-agency basis to support anti-racist initiatives would be appropriate."

Some money has already been spent on copies of the Commission for Racial Equality's Kick It magazine, which supports the famous "kick racism out of football" campaign.

If given the go-ahead, the campaign will be officially launched after artwork for posters has been approved. They will be given to organisation across the borough, and there could also be a local employers' forum set up to discuss race equality, as well as a training programme on employee recruitment and selection.

The issue will be discussed at a meeting of the council's equal opportunities sub-committee tonight (Thursday, March 28).

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