A SPECIAL silver anniversary celebration will take place this weekend when a popular Chorley community group marks its own achievements.

Twenty-five-year-old Tatton Community Group is inviting everyone along to its fun-packed gala day at Tatton Recreation Ground.

Attractions will include a chance for local youngsters to try out a new aerial runway installed at the recreation ground thanks to funding by the community group, Botany Bay and the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime.

The 60-metre runway will cost in the region of £7,500, including all safety flooring and precautions, and Tom Watson, chairman of the group, said: "It is the kind of thing they used to use on The Krypton Factor and it's set to be a fantastic attraction!"

There will be something for everyone on the day including mini motorbikes, birds of prey, police dog displays, donkey rides, a five-a-side football competition, bouncy castle, crafts stalls, children's merry-go-round, raffles, tombola plus hot and cold refreshments.

A silver anniversary exhibition is also planned, including photographs of events and staff past and present.

Mr Watson, of Rosklyn Road, Chorley, said the centre has been through a lot in its time: "It was burnt down after an arson attack in the 1990s, we had a skate park put in three years ago, a children's play area with help from Chorley Borough Council and new street lighting. "The community group was started because we felt a lot was needed for children in the community. The recreation ground is probably the the best youth centre in Chorley and I am very proud to reach this 25 year milestone."

Councillor Cath Hoyle, Chorley Borough Council's executive member for sport, arts and community development and environmental issues, said: "Tatton Community Group has been working hard on behalf of local people and I hope as many people as possible will be able to join in the anniversary celebrations.

"A lot has been achieved in recent years and I am sure that there is much more to come."

The gala day takes place this Saturday, August 25, at the recreation ground in Silverdale Road, Chorley, from 10am until 4pm -- admission is free.

FUN: Tom Watson (right) with Andy Brown