A COMPANY boss has donated £10,000 to help a young carers project after being told of its good work by one of his staff.

Darwen Group coach-builders, based at Whitebirk Industrial Estate, Blackburn, has donated the cash to help develop a mentoring service for children in the borough.

Chief executive Andrew Brian made the gesture after hearing about the project from Blackburn with Darwen Council former executive member for children's services, Coun Maureen Bateson, who works in the accounts department at the firm.

The money has gone to Blackburn with Darwen Young Carers Project, Oak-enhurst Road, Black-burn, which caters for 36 youngsters.

The project, launched by charity Child Action North-west and the council, offers both emotional and practical support to carers as young as eight.

The mentoring scheme will focus on the development of a support service for young and new members to the project.

As well as the donation, the Darwen Group, which employs about 260 people, is hoping to work with the young carers project to raise awareness about the service and encourage young carers to use the facilities.

As part of the project they will be given the chance to take part in fun activities like dance and music, educational programmes and workshops, including first aid training.

Mr Brian said: "We wanted to make a significant contribution to a local char-ity. When one of our employees, Coun Maureen Bateson, suggested this project we agreed it was very worthwhile cause.

"The centre provides the community with an inval-uable resource and it is imp-ortant that we do our bit to ensure its ongoing commi-tment to young carers.

"It is not just about making a financial contribution, we are looking to get involved in other areas including recreational trips.

Coun Bateson added: "There are a lot of young people that are carers who need extra support."