CORRIE'S Chesney Brown opened a new SureStart Centre in his home town of Bacup.

Sam Aston, who plays the TV soap's flame-haired favourite, made a guest appearance at the centre's new headquarters based at Maden Baths, Rochdale Road.

SureStart is a government programme providing community centres with activities and support for young families with toddlers.

Programme manager Michaela Francioli said: "We are delighted that Sam accepted our invitation to open our new centre."

The community cafe was opened with events including teddy bear activities, kite-making, face-painting, and two performances by Rossendale-based In2Act Theatre Company.

There was also a special performance based on children living in the Victorian times.