RACE relations work in Hyndburn and Rossendale looks set to continue despite the closure of the area's racial equality council.

At the final meeting of Hyndburn and Rossendale Racial Equality Council's executive committee, members were told that community groups in both boroughs had expressed an interest in taking over the group's work.

In Hyndburn, three community groups have pulled together to buy the equipment from the REC's Accrington office. And in Rossendale a new organisation has been given permission to use the group's offices in Kay Street, Rawtenstall, on a temporary basis with the support of the borough council.

A £1,000 bid for the entire contents of the group's Accrington office was accepted by the executive committee. The groups who joined forces to buy the equipment are the Ghousia Razviea Jamia Mosque in Higher Antley Street, the Asian Community Forum and a mosque on Blackburn Road.

A statement from the three groups said: "We are extremely upset at the decision to close the REC. We would like to express our appreciation to all concerned with the organisation for their services to the people of Hyndburn."

Both Rossendale and Hyndburn borough councils have indicated that cash formerly granted to the equality council will be given to any suitable organisations who wish to take over the role.

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