RESIDENTS had plenty to celebrate yesterday at a special fun day.

It launched a scheme to improve derelict land in Westbury Gardens United Reformed Church, off Audley Range, Westbury Gardens.

Plans are due to turn the empty plot into safe parking, a garden area and a sports area.

The scheme has been organised by Groundwork, a Blackburn-based charity who help improve local areas by regenerating their environments. Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council and Barclays PLC have teamed up to provide the funding.

The open day had indoor games, craft activities, and a litter-pick to mark the start of the redevelopment.

Fiona Hargreaves, senior project officer for Groundwork, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for the local community to contribute to the scheme and join in with some fun activities. The events will help people get involved with the scheme, and help us to introduce ourselves.

"The area used to be a car park, but there was a problem with vandalism. The plan is to build a safe car park, a garden, and a sports area for basketball and netball."