A FAMILY of asylum seekers in a race against time to stay in Nelson campaigned in the town centre to win people's support.

The Karims, from Barkerhouse Road, arrived in Britain in 2002 seeking asylum, claiming they were being persecuted in Pakistan after they became Catholics.

Earlier this year this year the family were threatened with deportation by the Home Office, and last week it was announced their asylum appeal had been rejected.

They had to leave the country by October 31, but the family's solicitor has bought them more time by demanding the Government ensure it has considered all the evidence.

Nigel and Pearl Karim, and their children Crystal and Calvin, have staunch support from their community and at the weekend they and fellow campaigners raised awareness of the family's plight by handing out leaflets in Nelson town centre, and collecting names for a petition.

Mr Karim said: "It was a successful day.

"We had many people, of all faiths and creeds, come to speak to us and give us their support.

"Of course there were those who did not want to sign, but mostly people were on our side, which is a real help in keeping us positive."

The 400-plus name petition will now be handed over to Pendle MP Gordon Prentice, who is backing their campaign, at a public meeting at Christ Church, Carr Road, Nelson, on Thursday.

Mr Karim said: "Mr Prentice will take the petition to give to the Home Secretary. After that we will have to wait and see."

As well as in their own town, the family have garnered support from across the region, with several Catholic primary schools in Lancashire helping the cause, thanks to the chaplain at Fisher-More RC High School, where Crystal, 14, and Calvin, 12, attend.

On their shared birthday on Friday, they visited schools in Chorley and Blackpool which are also sending in petitions.