COMMUNITY groups from Preston celebrated their achievements yesterday (Wednesday, September 6) at a special open day at the town's Guild Hall.

The free event was organised by the Inner Preston Regeneration Partnership (IPRP) and officially opened by the town's mayor, councillor Joe Hood.

The lively spectacular was designed to give local people an insight into the activities of the area's voluntary groups.

Visitors were treated to a showcase of projects developed by community groups in the Avenham, Brookfield, Central, Deepdale, Fishwick, Ribbleton, Riversway and St Mathew wards.

The event was jointly funded and supported by Preston Borough Council and Lancashire County Council.

Head of Preston council's community development, Peter Bargh, said: "There are hundreds of people giving up their time to improve the quality of life in their communities.

"So much has been achieved and we hope to further develop the spirit of community through the partnership."

County councillor Brian Johnson, who represents the county council on the IPRP, added: "The county council is supporting the partnership through its 'Building Better Communities' initiative and this networking event for people in the community is an ideal example of the way we want to see regeneration working."