HIGHFIELD Hall Community Association found an unusual way to say "thank you" to all the groups who supported its building fund.

The association decided to open the doors of its newly refurbished community centre to help other worthy causes raise funds and publicise their activities.

Nearly 30 different charities and organisations were represented at the open day and summer fair held at the centre in Highfield Road, Farnworth.

Bob Bruce, chairman of Highfield Hall Community Association, said: "It's the first time we have held such a function with so many groups involved, but it has been so successful we shall certainly be holding more.

"This was organised by way of a thank you to all the charities that gave us donations towards our building fund. As a result we have such excellent premises.

"We can't pay them back, but we can certainly help other local charitable groups to raise funds for themselves. We made no charge for a stall, so everything taken has gone directly to the group."

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