A VOLUNTEER group invest £33,000 into centre as a way of bringing the community together.

Gannow Community Centre, Adamson Street in Burnley opened its doors to the public yesterday.

More than 100 attended the grand opening, which featured a special appearance from Burnley FC’s mascot Bertie Bee.

The Rt Hon. Lord Shuttleworth, Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire also appeared to offer their support at the grand opening.

The building was owned by Lancashire County Council and ownership has been transferred to Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Community Voluntary Service in partnership with the Gannow Big Local.

The joint investment into refurbishing the building is worth £33,000.

Chief officer at BPRCVS, Christine Blythe, said: “Yesterday we launched a new community hub, in partnership with Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale Council Voluntary Service, at the heart of our community.

“There was a £1m invested by the Big Lottery Fund, over a 10 year period, to the Gannow Big Local. It was looking at what the area needs.

“It would not have been possible without the help of volunteers and staff from BPRCVS who have taken ownership of the centre.

“Any decision that happens in the area will be made by the residents.”

The new hub will host a range of activities that people can participate in, including weekly keep fit classes and a luncheon club.

Christine, who has worked at BPRCVS for 11 years, said: “A luncheon club will be held three times a week to support people who have mental health issues.

“We are looking to develop new activities at the centre and we will take into consideration any suggestions that residents make.

“This will be a real hub for the Gannow area so the residents can take control of their community.”

Burnley cllr Charles Briggs, who represents the ward in Gannow and attend the grand opening, said: “I am very grateful that BPRCVS has come in and taken it over.

“A number of community-driven activities will be held including a group session taking place for over 50s men to exercise.

“The centre used to be a heart of the Gannow area but because it could not find the funding that was needed. That was the big issue.

“The financial investment into the hub will help to get the community back together again.”

If you would like to know more about what’s going on at Gannow Community Centre  visit their website www.bprcvs.co.uk