ANOTHER institution in the town was celebrating the opening of a new headquarters 50 years ago this week (May 26).

Radcliffe's Civil Defence Corps were opening their new training and social centre at Allen's Green.

Civil defence leaders from surrounding towns, and more than 100 volunteers, attended the opening by Colonel L Green, chairman of the county defence committee and High Sheriff of Lancashire.

The building was formerly used as both a headquarters for the county council school meals service and a YMCA. It had been decorated largely by volunteers.

The first floor would be used for training and the ground floor would have an assembly room, lounge and refreshment bar.

Councillor F Brown, chairman of the committee, presided at the opening ceremony.

He spoke of the difficulty and delay that had been experienced in finding facilities, but of his satisfaction at the new venue for activities.

He said: "I doubt whether there is a better crowd of volunteers anywhere in the country, and it is therefore only fair that we should do our best for them."

Colonel Green told the volunteers: "I am confident there is nothing wrong with civil defence as far as Radcliffe is concerned."

It was important, he said, that all divisions should be as strong as possible.

He added that a good headquarters was needed for this, so that the necessary "social amenities, comradeship and team spirit" could be built up.

Although the town's membership figures were well above average, it was stated there was a need for more rescue workers and wardens.