AN influential year-long project set up to increase women's participation in conflict resolution and peace-building has come to an end.

The Women Building Peace project, a venture of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace, was funded by the European Union Integration Fund but there are no more resources available.

A total of 63 women have been trained as part of outreach work around the north west in communities affected by violent extremism.

Project leader Siobhan Riordan, who was based at the Peace Centre before bidding farewell to her role last Friday, has helped deliver training courses, qualifications and an international network for the women peace builders.

But despite it coming to an end, Siobhan is confident all those involved will ensure the legacy of the project lives on.

"There have been some great moments throughout the year – it has been a real pleasure to have been a part of," she said.

"I just want to really thank everyone who has participated and been involved for making it such a fantastic experience – the funding has finished but we appreciate all the help we have got for letting us do this.

"What we now have is an army of people. It is the first accredited programme of its kind and it has certainly surpassed our expectations.

"The women will continue meeting in Blackburn which is nice, it is in their hands what they decide to do."

The project, which also aimed to build skills, confidence and the capacity to proactively tackle conflict, featured on BBC Radio Lancashire last month in recognition of the efforts in place.

Siobhan praised the broadcast for allowing listeners to get an insight of the 'powerful stories' of some of the women involved.

She added: "The broadcast let people know a bit more about what we are doing and more about those at the project.

"It has been good to raise awareness but the main things has to help those that have come to us."

There will be a follow-up broadcast this month.

For further information and a look back at the past year visit the Women Building Peace project Facebook page.