YOUNG volunteers are being urged to get involved in a project aimed at creating community cohesion in Burnley.

Burnley Youth Action Zone is a scheme designed to get young people more involved in their local communities and help improve their relationships with people from different ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds.

The aim is to establish a core group of young volunteers who will then gain the skills to design, organise and run fun and educational activities for other young people and community members.

Project manager, Rehana Koser, said: "Central to this project is the belief that young people play a vital role in a creating a cohesive community, and that they are influenced by their peers in a variety of ways."

But more willing volunteers are needed to make the scheme a success.

To be a volunteer you need to be aged between 16- 25, and be able to spare a few hours a week.

Brian Moriarty, project co-ordinator, said: "This project is an excellent opportunity for young people to develop their skills and confidence, take up new activities and have fun, while at the same time enabling them to make a positive impact on their community."

The project is funded through the Community Fund, European Regeneration Development Fund (ERDF) and Connexions Development Fund, and is part of Lancashire Youth Association's East Lancashire Community Cohesion Project.

The association, which is also setting up Youth Action Zones in Nelson and Accrington, was holding a planning event for the project at Towneley Hall, in Burnley, today.

Representatives from the local community and statutory organisations are meeting to share ideas on how to take Burnley Youth Action Zone forward.

Any young people interested in volunteering for the project should contact Brian Moriarty on 01282 411183 or 0797 108 4346.