TWENTY-FIVE years ago the TV star Timmy Mallett opened Mill Gate shopping centre and he’s back this year to head up anniversary celebrations.

Timmy will be there to meet shoppers between 2pm and 4pm. He will also play half an hour game of the legendary Mallett’s Mallet.

Mill Gate manager Marie Gribben said: “We are delighted to have Timmy Mallett back to Mill Gate to celebrate its 25th birthday.

“Mill Gate is proud to have been at the heart of Bury town centre for 25 great years and what better way to say thank you to our shoppers than inviting them to our birthday celebrations on 29 July.”

The celebrations will start at 11am and there will be a party atmosphere with Mill Gate staff and retailers in fancy dress for the day.

Mill Gate has commissioned a piece of community art – a giant ‘25’ made up of a photo montage of images taken in the centre during past decades.

It will be the backdrop to the day’s activities and will then be on permanent display in Union Arcade for shoppers to see.

One hundred lucky shoppers will get a blue chip in the parking machine will be able to redeem it for free parking if they go to customer services.

Shoppers will be able to enjoy live music from The Rae Owens Jazz Quartet who will perform in Schorndorf Square.

There will be free face painting for youngsters and a pair of ‘rainbow ladies’ on stilts will cut a colourful dash during the proceedings.

Mill Gate has decided to combine the party with One Great Day – a charity day to raise money for MedEquip4Kidsand Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Mill Gate’s giant deckchair has been upholstered with a birthday message and will be on display around the Centre from July 25 to August 25.

Shoppers can upload a selfie on Mill Gate’s Facebook page for the chance to win £100.