MEMBERS of a residents' group are to move into a new home, lent to them by Hyndburn Council.

Greenhill Residents Association members were delighted when the council agreed to let them use a flat in Greenhill, Great Harwood, to hold meetings and offer help to the community.

They were even happier when they were told the council would contribute to the upkeep of the building by paying the group's electricity, gas and telephone bills.

The residents re-formed the association 12 months ago after it had disappeared six year ago through what chairman George Windrass attributes to lack of interest.

Vandalism at Fielding Lane park was one of the problems in the area which spurred the locals into reforming and now the council has awarded them planning permission to convert the flat into an office and meeting room.

Chairman of the association George Windrass said: "Until three weeks ago, we were forced to hold the meetings in our homes or in a church for larger meetings.

"Since we reformed 12 months ago, we have been meeting regularly and we shall be discussing how to best use the flat at our next meeting on October 15.

"The premises will hopefully be used for various community activities, which could include committee meetings, mothers and toddlers groups, a computer club and a relaxation group.

"Hyndburn have been very good to us and we are very excited about moving into our new home.

Secretary of the association Kristine Corbett said: "The flat will be a place to go for members of the local community to get advice.

"Someone will be at the centre every day. A lot of people in the estate are quite elderly and will be able to pay us a visit if they have any problems."