HUNDREDS of people turned up to see Haslingden's new resource centre following its launch by the Mayor of Rossendale, Councillor David Hancock and a Rossendale College student dressed as a Mary Hindle look-a-like.

The Mary Hindle Resource Centre, in Bury Road, was completed one day before the opening and will offer support to local voluntary and community groups.

Haslingden Community Forum managed to secure all the funding necessary to transform the building and continue to run it -- with a £138,000 grant from the National Lottery Charities Board, £99,000 from the North West Development Agency and £200,000 from the Action for Haslingden Partnership.

It was formerly the New Thorn Inn and a magistrate's court, where 26 rioters, including Mary Hindle, were held following the destruction of 106 power looms at Middle Hill, Helmshore.

A time capsule, containing maps, CDs and drawings from local school children showing what life is like in Haslingden, was buried by local historian Bill Turner in the cellar of the building, with instructions that it must not be opened until 2027 -- 200 years after Mary Hindle was deported to Australia for life.

But there is still room left in the cavity wall surrounding the capsule for items to be added throughout the rest of this year.

The centre will offer office space for local groups, access to items such as the photocopiers and a meeting space.