PEOPLE of all ages enjoyed an outdoor play beside the River Darwen -- and were spurred on to keep improving their neighbourhood.

Around 30 children and adults watched environmentally aware theatre group Talia Theatrum perform at a redeveloped piece of green space at Shorey Bank, near Darwen town centre.

The 25-minute play, called Our Environment, recounted Mother Nature's search for her ailing children, and was held on the final day of Blackburn with Darwen Council's Green Week.

Darwen River Valley Initiative co-ordinator Sarah Lester said: "The play was very well received and highlighted the issues faced within the River Darwen catchment."

Shorey Bank has recently benefited from a £120,000 facelift, including improved footpaths and landscaping, new benches, trees and a footbridge over the river.

Plans for the area were developed by Blackburn with Darwen Council following community consultation and the work was funded from the borough's Single Regeneration Budget.

The Friends of Shorey Bank Group wants to keep improving the area.

Plans for Shorey Bank Fair will be discussed during its next meeting at Hindle Court, Darwen, on Monday, June 5 at 7pm. All are welcome.