DARWEN’s Mayor Eileen Entwistle will officially open the town centre’s new community cafe this weekend.

The Sudell ward Labour councillor believes it will be a major asset for local people.

The cafe is behind the former George Hotel public house on the main A666 Bolton Road, near the junction with Bridge Street.

It is open in the afternoon and evenings to give non-pubgoers somewhere to socialise in the evenings.

Coun Entwistle who will be at the launch this Saturday afternoon, said: “I will be delighted to officially open this new community cafe.

“I think it will be a real asset to Darwen town centre. “Something we really need.

“It will be somewhere for young people and older people who don’t want to drink alcohol to go and socialise in the afternoon and evening.

“There are lots of people who might want to go out in the evening in Darwen town centre but don’t want to go to the pub.”

She added: “It’s somewhere for a coffee, a snack and a chat. “I hope it is a great success.”