TRAFFORD has put in place contingency plans to take refugees from war-torn Kosovo.

The borough has responded to a request from the Home Office by pinpointing empty council property across the borough that could be used to house them.

Council chief executive Allan Lewis says: "We have identified four buildings which could accommodate 30 to 40 families and are also looking at other housing in various locations that could be available."

It is believed refugees will only be evacuated to Britain and other European countries as a last resort - NATO's stated aim is to ensure they can return to their former homes.

The council is also backing a major fundraising project launched in Urmston and identifying practical ways to help.

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