AN organisation set up to raise funds for Whalley Abbey is appealing for young people to help out.

The Whalley Abbey Fellowship was established in 1930, two years after the Abbey was bought for the Church of England.

The fellowship has about 500 members, representing all the parishes in the diocese, but the fellowship's executive has no young people.

Chairman the Rev Alan Reid said: "The abbey is the main conference centre and the spiritual power house for the diocese.

"We are always trying to get new members to sit on the executive. Unfortunately we don't seem to be able to get young people involved."

The fellowship organises fundraising events including coffee mornings and summer fairs, with the cash going into projects such as refurbishing the bedrooms.

John Wilson, manager of Whalley Abbey, said the fellowship's cash was one of three important sources of income for the abbey.

He said: "One is conference bookings and guests who stay here. The conference house also receives a subsidy from the diocese each year.

"The Fellowship raises money through their events to support the work of the Abbey."

The abbey was closed down in 1537. The building was a private house for 400 years before it was bought back for the church's use in 1928.

To help on the executive call Mr Reid on 01254 824620.