CHOWBENT is set to celebrate a new chapter in its history.

The Chapel's tradition of community involvement will begin again with the opening of the new Chowbent Hall.

To celebrate members and friends have joined forces to present at evening of entertainment on Friday, June 6.

The youngest three years old nursery school pupil to the oldest chorister at 83 will get together to toast the occasion with an evening concert "A Little Light Music".

When the lights go on for the first time at the new hall, managed by Mr Peter Street, it will provide Atherton with a modern centre for social and recreational activities.

Mr Street said: 'I am looking forward to developing links with local groups and the hall will be available for hire."

The chapel has played an important part in Atherton life since the 1700s. It had the only lending library in the area until municipal ones were introduced and on the opening of Atherton donated its collection.

The chapel built, extended and ran the day school with funds provided by the congregation, and the land for the most recent extension, the Frankland Memorial building, was given by Caleb Wright.

In 1972 control was handed over to the council and when the school moved to new premises, the building was bought and now houses a thriving nursery school.

Old and new friends are welcome to the concert which includes a variety of music to suit all tastes. It starts and 7.30pm and tickets at £3, £2 for children, are available on 01942 683306 or 873956 or pay on the door. Proceeds go to chapel funds.