RAINSOUGH residents celebrated the launch of their new community centre with a variety of activities.

More than 150 people took advantage of the free entertainment, demonstrations and buffet laid on to mark the transformation of the former Scout headquarters to a venue used by the whole community.

Included in the attractions was a sing-a-long camp fire with local Beavers and Cubs, a dancing display by Dance Crazy, a presentation of the buildings history and have-a-go sessions at computer skills and card-making.

The event was the climax of two years' hard work by the management committee which had seen extensive building work both inside and out.

The work was made possible by grants of £30,000, courtesy of the Learning and Skills Council, Children In Need, Greater Manchester Community Foundation, Prestwich Area Board, St Paul's and St Andrew's Parish, Born2Perform and the 19th Prestwich Scout Group.

Special guests at the launch were the Mayor and Mayoress of Bury, Coun Steve Treadgold and his wife Jean.

Chairman of the community centre Mr Alan Saunders said the residents enjoyed the launch and were now looking forward to a new lease of life through the centre.

Mr Saunders said: "It's a real success story and testimony to the hard work of all our volunteers. Weve still a long way to go but with the downstairs of the building now looking so good, we hope to attract new groups and help create a focal point for the Rainsough community."

The committee is planning new activities for the centre, including adult computer classes, a youth club, church activities, parties and residents meetings all in addition to continuing as a venue for the Scouts, Cubs and Beavers.