CELEBRATIONS surrounding the opening of a community credit union were tinged with sadness following the death of a founder member.

The new Darwen Tower Credit Union shop in The Circus has been dedicated to Lillian Scott.

The 71-year-old leading community activist died suddenly from a heart attack earlier this month. She was a driving force behind the financial co-operative which provides a savings and loans service to members.

Chairman Janice Parker said: "The idea behind the new shop is to make the credit union more accessible.

"It is staffed entirely by volunteers and we are very grateful for the tremendous support shown by everybody.

"The credit union was registered in February 1996 and it took about 18 months to get to that stage.

"We signed up our 200th member at the opening. Lillian was behind the original idea. It wouldn't be what it is today if it hadn't been for her sheer determination and effort. It is just sad she couldn't have seen the shop open for herself."

Darwen MP Janet Anderson -- herself a member -- officially opened the premises, watched by invited guests.

Collections will still take place at Sudellside Community Centre and the shop will initially open between 10am and 1.30pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Picture: Janet Anderson cuts the tape with chairman Janice Parker and other volunteers looking on.