Westhoughton United Reformed Church is celebrating its 200th anniversary with a weekend of special events.

This weekend will mark two centuries since founder William Alexander created a congregation in the town and a foundation for the church.

Church officials want to encourage local people to learn about the church’s history and boost the number of youngsters in the congregation.

The church has just undergone a huge refurbishment which has seen improvements made to the toilet facilities, kitchen and the church hall.

Secretary Margaret Curne said: “We want to try to attract the younger generation and we have worked hard to get the place fit for use.”

William Alexander began preaching in Westhoughton 1811 and people in the town gathered in a private house to worship.

By 1815, his followers had secured a cottage at a yearly rent of £5 but congregations increased and other meeting places had to be found.

In 1820, the Sunday School was attended by 300 people and the church was fully formed in 1827.

The year 1835 marked the beginning of the building era and the chapel opened later that year, but a bigger building was soon needed.

A new building was opened at the junction of Park Road and Leigh Road on March 30, 1853, at a cost of £1,600 and this is the building which remains today.

Part of the building is used by Daisy Hill pre-school, and the Bethel Crowd Amateur Dramatic Society has been based at the church for more than 40 years. The church also has Women’s Guild.

A flower festival and an historic photographic display takes place on Saturday, from 3pm to 5pm, followed by a performance by the Ladybridge Singers at 7.30pm.

On Sunday, there will be a service of celebration at 2.30pm. For tickets to any of these events, or further information, contact Bob Prideaux on 01942 793266.