AN East Lancashire charity, which aims to prevent suicides in youths, hopes to help save more young lives after expanding into a new headquarters.

Arthur Tomlinson set up Papyrus, after his 23-year-old son Leon took his own life in 1991.

Papyrus, which was based in Rawtenstall, was founded in 1997 by Mr Tomlinson and a number of other parents who had lost children through suicide.

The voluntary organisation has more than 300 members nationwide and runs HOPELineUK, which is staffed by professionally qualified advisers who can give support, practical advice and information to anyone who is concerned that a young person they know may be suicidal.

Now the charity is going from strength to strength, after moving out of its small office at Rossendale Hospital into much larger facilities, which includes two meeting rooms and a kitchen, at Lodge House, in Thompson Park, Burnley.

The official opening was carried out by the Mayor of Burnley, Peter McCann.

Papyrus is currently seeking more trustees from a business background who can give some of their time to helping progress the development of the charity and securing its future.

Anyone who would like to help can contact the HQ on 01282 432555.