WORK to refurbish two churches could begin early next year if more than half a million pounds funding is approved.

Sure Start Hyndburn has submitted a planning application to Hyndburn Council to build an extension to St Peter's Church, in Richmond Road, Accrington, to house a children's play area.

St Peter's, and Christ Church, in Christ Church Square, Accrington, will use the money to provide Sure Start facilities for young families.

Both projects hinge on the approval of European funding, expected in the next few days.

The Rev Kevin Logan, vicar of Christ Church, said £300,000, from the European Regional Development Fund, the government's Sure Start fund, and church funds, would be spent at his church once the money had been approved.

The cash will be used to install a new floor at the back of the church, an IT room, new toilets and a lift.

"It's quite an extensive project. We want to be sure families having such a rough start do get a sure start and get a fair crack of the whip," said Mr Logan.

"That includes providing child care, and all the things they need educationally, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. It also includes training for mums so they can get back to work."

At St Peter's, £300,000 of funding will enable Sure Start to build the single storey extension to provide a play area for children if planners at Hyndburn give the go ahead. Plans also include adding an extra floor, and improving kitchen and toilet facilities.

Father David Lyon, team rector for the parish of Christ the King, Accrington, which includes St Peter's, said work was expected to start early next year and last six months if the funding was granted.

He said: "Everything is moving forward. We are delighted to be working in partnership with Sure Start, particularly to enrich the life of the community, especially family life.

"I think a lot of Church of England churches are moving in this direction. They want to have the building in use by the community during the week."