SUPPORT from more than a dozen organisations has been welcomed, but is still not enough for a new campaign to provide a safe place for drunk or distressed people.

Nearly 20 organisations have given their support to Blackburn with Darwen Community Safety Partnership's initiative.

The Safe Haven Scheme has received donations from businesses such as Argos, Debenhams and Leo's Carpets to provide a bus where people can stay until friends or a taxi arrive for them. Sergeant Rachel Baines said: "As a non-profit project, the Safe Haven scheme cannot work without the help and support of both volunteers and local businesses.

"I would like to thank all of the organisations who have already offered their support. I cannot overstate how important it is that we all work together on this groundbreaking scheme to make Blackburn a safer place to live, work and socialise."

Coun Andy Kay, chair of Blackburn with Darwen Community Safety Partnership, said: "Once again our thanks go to the businesses and individuals from Blackburn and Darwen who have risen to the occasion to support a local initiative. I would also like to thank the organisations that have come on board, and I'm sure that as soon as more people are aware of the work that will be done on the Safe Haven bus even more support will be forthcoming."

The Safe Haven bus will be in Blackburn with Darwen centres from December 15.