SUPPORTERS of Darwen's Ashton Park are hoping to celebrate its 20th anniversary by returning it to its former glory.

Plans to polish the town's 'hidden jewel' and restore it have been unveiled by Blackburn with Darwen Council.

The park, which lies in the middle of town, boasts a lake with an island and also has the River Darwen running through it.

Community Development Officer (Parks) for Blackburn with Darwen council Allison Porter said: "This park has the potential to be Darwen's hidden jewel. We want to let people in Darwen know about this lovely little park which at the moment is under-used."

Renovation work has already started in the park with the help of a £1,000 community chest award funded by the council which has helped renovate the island.

Allison said: "We are also looking at other possible forms of funding possibly from the Darwen River Valley initiative."

She added they were hoping to promote the park as a town park.

Frank Hull who lives in Balle Street is one of the residents supporting the renovation of the park along with Marsh House ward councillor Kevin Connor.

Mr Hull said: "We are hoping to start a new park supporters' group to upgrade and improve the park and hope to provide extra play equipment there.

"We would welcome anyone who would like to help."

Although the previous parks' supporters' group folded a year ago Allison said it was successful in deterring groups from meeting in the park by establishing a police presence there.

Anyone interested in joining the park supporters' group is invited to a meeting being held at the Borough pub in Grimshaw Street on February 26 at 7pm.

Allison added: "We are raring to go, we just need some support from people in Darwen."

To help out, contact Allison Porter on 01254 690235.