A PROJECT to provide a 'cafe zone' for disadvantaged youngsters in Rossendale has received a significant boost.

Around £26,8000 is being sought by Vision for the initiative at Woodlea Missions, Tenterfield Street, Rawtenstall, which will include kitting out part of the premises as a mini-cinema.

A Vision spokesman said: “This cafe zone will provide a space for young people to meet and socialise and the environment will promote interaction. It will also be a dynamic, perfect venue for training purposes and our workshops for young people including Inspire Days, Romance Academy and alcohol education talks.”

Now the scheme has been awarded nearly £1,900 from Lancashire County Council through a community awards round designed to assist young people.

A spokesman for the county's Youth Council, which hands out the grants, said: “We felt that the project offered value for money and would benefit many young people.”

Supporters of the cafe zone project are hoping to reach their £26,800 target using annual donations from the Seedfield Trust, Rank Foundation and the Lancaster Foundation.

J and J Ormerod is also donating a kitchen design and units worth £4,000.

The Christian organisation offers activities and support to people aged 12 to 24, looked after or leaving care, with learning difficulties or disabilities, are black or ethnic minorities, or come from low income families.