YOUNGSTERS have set out to build bridges with elderly folk in Darwen and ease crime fears - by offering an olive branch.

Young people taking part in a new project called Junior Problem Solving handed out potted plants which they had created for them.

Bringing two generations in Sudell together involves a group of 13 youngsters who are hoping to get to know and reassure pensioners who have said they are afraid of going out of their homes.

Yesterday they met pensioners at Elizabeth House sheltered housing comple, for the first time and gave them some plants which they had potted up at Sudellside Community Centre.

PC John Chapman, one of the organisers of the project, said: "They were all a bit nervous. But the whole point of this project is to break down barriers. Once they start chatting they will learn about each other ."

Mikaela Coates, 12, said: "I think it's a good idea and we are giving up our school holidays for it. We enjoyed making putting the plants in the pots."

Charlotte Green, 12, said: "We don't normally come into contact with old people. We want to ask them about what their childhood was like compared to ours. We want to give it a try."One of the residents, Mildred West, 83, said: "It seems a good idea. I don't like gangs of people hanging around outside, it can be frightening to go out.

"The people we've met today seem like good people so hopefully they will tell the others who cause more trouble about it. Some young people upset grannies because they don't know us."

The project has been put together by youth involvement officers, PC Vanessa Rushton and PC John Chapman, Mick Huxley from youth services, Sue Freear from Sudellside Community Centre and Lesley Hall and Tracy Scott from Youth Works.

It is being sponsored by various organisations including Blackburn with Darwen Council.

It will also involve trips out during which the youths will partner an elderly person.

Councillor Mohammed Khan, the council's executive member for housing and neigbourhoods, said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with the police and the community to bring older and younger people in the Sudellside area together. I hope all the residents of Elizabeth House enjoy the flowers the young people have planted."