ANEW hub to help victims of crime has been launched in Accrington.

The centre, provided by Lancashire Victim Services was officially opened on Tuesday.

It will provide emotional support, information and practical help to victims and witnesses of crime.

The hub is the first of four planed across Lancashire and has a variety of agencies which will work across those affected by all types of offending and anti-social behaviour.

The launch event was hosted by Lancashire police and crime commissioner Clive Grunshaw, who heard how victims will benefit from the new Accrington team.

It is made up of independent victim advocates with specialist support available from domestic violence advisors, violence advisors, children and young people case workers and hate crime case workers.

The launch follows two years of developing a service model and the award of the delivery contract Victim Support earlier this year.

Mr Grunshaw said:”Making sure that expert support is available locally was a key aspect in commissioning the service.

“The Accrington Hub is one of four launching in Lancashire this month and while the building is located in Accrington, support will be delivered across the whole of East Lancashire.

“Lancashire Victim Services’ outreach support means that victim advocates and specialists are able to travel to meet people in locations that work for them.”

Ellen Miller, services director for Lancashire Victim Services, said: “No one should feel alone or unsupported after being a victim of crime and through the hub people can access support locally to help them recover.

“We have a team of experts on hand to provide emotional support and help, no matter what type of crime they have been affected by.

Mayor of Hyndburn, Cllr Peter Britcliffe, said: “This is a valuable new service for victims in Accrington, the borough and the surrounding area.”