The Memorials Gardens in Whitworth will get a face-lift in time to celebrate its 90th year following a £50,000 funding grant from Community Spaces.

The work will consist of the removal of rhododendrons, new wrought iron railings surrounding the park, brand new park furniture, improvements to existing flower beds, and a new hard-standing on banking above the existing memorial.

The joint project involves Whitworth Horticultural Society, Rossendale Council, Whitworth Town Council and Proffitts - a local group offering help with funding applications and development of community spaces.

The news of the successful funding bid followed confirmation of planning permission which was granted at Rossendale Council's July planning committee.

Neighbourhood Forum Chair, Councillor Tom Aldred said: "The Horticultural Society do such brilliant work in Whitworth, not only on the Memorial Gardens, but also on smaller gardens and planters throughout the valley.

"The new gardens are sure to be a blooming success!"

Anita Farrow, treasurer of Whitworth's Horticultural Society who committed a lot of time and worked incredibly hard on the funding applications was delighted with the funding award.

She said: "The project has been a long time in the making, but I am thrilled we have been awarded the money. "We hope to have the majority of the work completed in time for Remembrance Sunday in November.

"The new steps leading to a hard-standing area will mean the Whitworth & Healey band will no longer have to struggle up the banking and can be used for future events, benefitting the residents of Whitworth for years to come."