DOZENS of Chorley families are quids in following a council anti-poverty campaign.

More than 800 requests for information poured in during the initiative to make more people aware of council tax benefits they might be missing out on.

As a direct result, some families are better off by as much as £10 a week, said the council.

The campaign was launched by the newly formed sport, arts and community development sub-committee.

Chairman councillor Tony Gee said: "I was convinced that some people were not claiming benefits which they were entitled to and this campaign has proved that my suspicions were well founded. The extra money we have been able to put into people's pockets not only helps them, but it has a wider economic benefit for the whole of the borough.

"We estimate this initiative will bring at least an extra £10,000 a year into Chorley."

Councillor Gee urged anyone in doubt about their entitlements to ask the council.

Council leader John Wilson congratulated Coun Gee and added: "This is one of a series of new, pro-active measures we are taking to tackle poverty."

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