Ex-hostage Terry Waite is guest of honour at Emmaus Burnley fund-raiser

The dinner on Thursday, April 7th, will see Terry Waite CBE speak about his role as president of the charity at 7 p.m. in the James Hargreaves Suite at Burnley Football Club.

Mr Peter Pike, chairman of Emmaus Burnley, said: “These are exciting times for us in Burnley when after more than five years of planning, fund-raising and working, the first phase of our development of Emmaus House on Old Hall Street is now complete, providing accommodation for 11 companions (residents).

“Our first two companions have already moved in and work on the second phase of the re-development has now begun. We have also signed the lease on the former St John’s Primary School in Ivy Street where our commercial enterprise will be sited.

“We feel that all this is worthy of celebrating so that is why we have decided to hold a gala dinner hosted by our patrons, Sir Simon Towneley KCVO KCSG and Lord Carlile of Berriew QC.”

Emmaus is also to receive artwork from Burnley College for the corridor walls and dining area, and plans to establish a working relationship with the college.

Mr Pike added: “We now have a vehicle and can start collecting furniture – we already have some waiting for this. We have taken up the lease on our social enterprise building with an option to buy when we have the funding. We aim to open our doors for business in March.” The charity is also holding a fund-raising curry evening on February 21st. To order tickets call Mr Pike on 07976 891801 or Emmaus House on 430860.