HALF a century of youth work in Bolton is set to be celebrated at a big birthday party next month.

The New Overdale Youth Centre has been the headquarters of Bolton's Youth Service since September 1950.

And senior youth workers are now planning a large 50th birthday celebration at the centre on Overdale Drive, Heaton.

As reported in the BEN, New Overdale is nearing the end of an era after £8.5 million plans were announced to demolish the centre and move Bolton's youth service to a new complex at Castle Hill, Tonge Moor.

But before all that senior community youth worker Greg Brooks wants to celebrate the 50 years of work at New Overdale.

He said: "We want to make this a real celebration of the centre itself and of youth work in Bolton.

"It's the end of an era in many ways and we want to mark it as a special occasion."

He added: "Anyone who has worked here during the last 50 years or who has strong connections with the youth service and New Overdale is welcome to come to the party."

New Overdale was officially opened by the Mayoress of Bolton Sheila Wright on September 23 1950. The birthday party is planned for September 24 this year.

Mr Brooks is keen for people with memories, stories and old photographs taken during the past 50 years at the centre to contact him as soon as possible.

He wants to put together a display that will be on show at the party. Anyone who can help or who wants details about the birthday celebrations should call him on Bolton 332323 or write to Greg Brooks, New Overdale, 11 Overdale Drive, Bolton, BL1 5BT.

Demolition work at New Overdale is not expected to start until June next year.