THE leader of Hyndburn Council has thrown his support behind a church-run scheme to help ex-offenders.

Project Restore was set up by Oswaldtwistle Community Church, based in the Hope Centre, Watson Street, and has been running for about six months.

It helps ex-offenders rebuild their lives, particularly those battling with drug and drink problems.

But concerns were raised by local politicians, who feared it would bring ex-offenders into the area. This week church leader Brian Jackson met with councillors, including Coun Britcliffe to discuss the project.

Coun Britcliffe said: "They explained the project to us and I actually think that there has been a problem with communication.

"What they are doing is giving support to Hyndburn residents and it is extra support which we would welcome.

"There were fears that we were importing problems into the area, but that is not the case."