BRIERCLIFFE Gala will return to Burnley for the first time in 12 years after a massive financial boost.

The Awards for All lottery group have given a grant of almost £4,000 to the community gala, once a staple event in the town.

The gala was an annual event until 1992 when it died out due to a lack of support in organising it.

A group of six residents had formed a gala committee in an attempt to resurrect the once popular event, which will now take place in June following the cash boost.

Committee chairman Simon Brierley said: "We had already raised £1,500 through fundraising activities and a grant. And this award effectively guarantees that the gala will take place next year. It's fantastic news."

Ward councillor Roger Frost welcomed news the gala would be returning.

He said: "This is very good news. When it ran as a regular event it was always very successful and well attended so everyone is pleased to see it coming back."

Despite the grant, treasurer Philippa Lishman said the fundraising for the event would continue.

She said: "The more money we raise the better the gala will be for the people of Briercliffe and beyond.

"We have applied for a number of grants and we have a full programme of events between now and June.

"From sponsored chest waxing to quiz nights, treasure hunts and pub crawls, we've got something for everyone planned in the next few months." Gala organisers will hold a quiz night at Briercliffe Working Men's Club on Saturday, October 23 at 8.30pm.