A WOMAN who was crowned Civic Queen at the first Darwen Gala could return to the town for the 36th event.

Susan Wakeman, nee Payne, came forward after organisers of the extravaganza revealed plans to turn back the clock and recreate some of the attractions from the first time the gala was held on the present site in Borough Road.

Susan left Darwen a few years after the gala and travelled the country before eventually settling in Dorset.

She is married and has four children and five grandchildren. Her mother, Mrs Anne Payne, 75, still lives in the town, as do two brothers Laurence and George.

"I remember becoming the Civic Queen very well. It was a good day and I'd like to come back for this year's gala."

Sixties singing group The Beathovens, who performed during the 1966 event, are booked to play on August 18.

Darwen Gala Committee would still like to hear from anybody with photographs or other mementoes for use on a special nostalgia display. If you can help, ring Brian during the day on 01254 773865.