PEOPLE at a centre for the disabled people were seeing stars after building their own telescope.

The Science and Technology Group at the Jubilee Centre welcomed Sir Patrick Moore to help launch their 8-inch Dobsonian telescope.

The 4.5ft long telescope, named Planet Seeker One, took more than two years to complete with the amateur group building everything from the mirror to the turntable -- and even making dust covers.

Sir Patrick said: "They have chosen exactly the right type of telescope. It's easy to make and easy to use and it's accessible to everyone. They have done everything right."

The group were led by amateur astronomer Ron Smith, from Farnworth, who is a client at the centre, which is run and managed by Bolton Council's Social Services Department.

Hughie Brogan, Day Service Operator at the Jubilee Centre, said: "The project re-invigorated Mr Smith's interest. He has helped everyone along the way, guiding them in all the different aspects. The techniques he used were absolutely mindboggling."

The centre adopts a different project on a regular basis but this has been their biggest challenge to date. They now hope to offer their telescope to schools and youth groups so they too can enjoy seeking out the stars.