PEOPLE power is helping to transform a disused water lodge into a community space for the young and old.

The Lodgeside Trust, made up of residents from the Whitehall area of Darwen, has launched a fund-raising campaign to kick start the ambitious project in Watery Lane.

They hope to create a seating area for the elderly and somewhere safe for young people to meet and play.

Trust vice-chairman Tracy Turnbull, said: "We've had problems with juvenile nuisance in the past and wanted to provide a facility which would cater for the whole community.

"It's a beautiful piece of grassed area, overlooking Newrad Fishing Club, with plenty of wildlife."

The appeal target is £2,500 and, so far, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Groundwork, Blackburn, have expressed an interest in supporting the work.

Imperial Home Decor have donated seating, ICI have offered £250 and a trust fund-raising event brought in £100.

Tracy added: "Draining the lodge is our next priority. We've already arranged for the pathways to be cleared and trees to be put back and are hoping a dog toilet will be installed and perhaps some lighting.

"We have set ourselves a target of two years to get everything finished."

A fund-raising event will be held at the Top Conservative Club, Bolton Road, Darwen, starting at 7.30pm on Friday, May 28, featuring two Darwen bands, Strapped For Cash and Horizon. Entry is £2 and all proceeds will go into the project.

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