BLACKPOOL is to be put on the medical map -- with a big red cross.

The Red Cross is to open a new centre in the town, thanks to a £180,000 cash boost from Blackpool Challenge Partnership.

The money will be used to transform a derelict former warehouse on Coronation Street into a service delivery and training centre, providing vital services to the disabled and disadvantaged.

Challenge Partnership manager Alan Cavill said: "The opening of the building will not only herald the arrival of a permanent Red Cross facility in Blackpool, but also bring lots of valuable services together under one roof."

An application for £185,000 of Government funding had been approved for the project which has already received £400,000 from the National Lottery's community fund.

Kevin Flitcroft, administration manager for the Lancashire branch of the British Red Cross, said without the additional support of Blackpool Challenge Partnership the project would not have been able to be developed so quickly. "We are extremely grateful," he said. "The representation of the Red Cross in Blackpool is not good and hasn't been for a long time. Now all that is set to change."

The money will allow the charity to employ two youth outreach workers, an administrator and a medical loan officer for three years, as well as funding equipment and furnishings for the building.

The centre will receive the support of many local organisations including the Trinity Hospice, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Lancashire Ambulance Service, Fylde and Wyre Volunteer Bureau and the Lancashire Partnership against crime.

Trained volunteers will also be available to support fire, police and ambulance brigades in the event of a major incident.

The facilities will be available for use by community groups and charitable organisations.

Work will begin on the service centre next month and it is expected that it will open its doors to the public in July when it will be able to offer:

Expert guidance in camouflage make-up for disfigured accident and fire victims.

A medical equipment loan service.

First aid at public events.

Emergency respite for carers.

Conference facilities.

Support for the elderly on leaving hospital.