THE local branch of a children's charity is enjoying one of its best years ever after fears it may have had to disband.

And the next event to be staged by the local Save the Children Fund will be a coffee morning in Ramsbottom Library on Thursday, May 3 between 10am and noon.

The last 12 months have turned full circle for the Ramsbottom branch, according to secretary Mrs Mavis Hopkinson.

"Twelve months ago, we were in danger of disbanding as our committee is so small and we were having increasing difficulties organising events which made any money," she said.

But when Tottington councillor Bill Johnson became Bury's mayor last May, he chose the Save the Children Fund as one of his mayoral charities.

"Thanks to him, and all his hard work and enthusiasm, we have had one of our best years ever," added Mrs Hopkinson.

Now, with Coun Johnson's term almost over, the Ramsbottom branch is organising its own events.

Next week's coffee morning will co-incide with Save the Children Week. Home-made cakes and marmalade will be on sale.