PLANS have been unveiled to create a self-sustaining centre to help homeless people rebuild their lives.

The £1.25m scheme would see the establishment of an Emmaus Community in North Yorkshire, providing a home, work and opportunities for people in need of a fresh start.

It will be run along the lines of other successful Emmaus schemes that have been established for more than 50 years internationally.

Plans to buy and convert former farm buildings will be revealed later this month when the Archbishop of York, Dr David Hope, hosts a special evening at Bishopthorpe Palace.

He will be joined on June 18 by the president of Emmaus, former Beirut hostage Terry Waite, the charity's director, Tim Page, and the chairman of Emmaus North Yorkshire, John Walker.

Mr Walker said yesterday: "We have been looking for a site for a community for some time and we are very excited that, after years of planning, our dream to establish a community in North Yorkshire is nearing reality.

"The proposed site at Barlby offers a wonderful opportunity for us to create a home for residents - who are called companions - workshops and a retail area which will sell recycled and restored goods, such as furniture and household appliances."

He added: "There are nine other Emmaus communities in the UK and they provide a unique environment where people can rebuild their lives in an atmosphere of dignity, mutual support and respect."

Emmaus in the UK has developed as part of an international movement founded by a French priest, Abb Pierre, soon after the Second World War. There are now more than 400 communities in 39 countries.

An appeal for £1.25m will be launched at the Bishopthorpe Palace event to convert the derelict buildings and outhouses, once the plans have been approved.

Dr Hope and Father Abbot Timothy Wright, Abbot of Ampleforth, are joint patrons of Emmaus North Yorkshire. Supporters can become friends of the organisation by contacting John Walker at Emmaus North Yorkshire, St Michael's Chambers Spurriergate Centre, Coney Street, York YO1 9QR, or telephone (01904) 622233.