A ‘PEACE garden’ is to be unveiled after eight years of work and fundraising.

The £11,000 project, at the corner of Burnley Lane in Huncoat, has been ‘self-built’ by the local community forum.

The project has now been completed, with flower beds, seating, paved path and artwork.

Roy Chetham, from the Huncoat Forum, said the site has been claimed as ‘a place of tranquillity’.

Historic gate posts, carved with dove emblems, have been put in place at the entrance, while a dedication plaque has also been created.

Coun Dave Parkins said the project has been the culmination of work from the forum, along with the Prospects Foundation, Unity Building Services, Martin Bednarczuk, Lancashire County Council, Huncoat Area Management Council and Senator.

A formal opening and dedication will take place on Saturday, April 16, at 11am.

He said: “It is an excellent project and the culmination of nearly 10 years work. It is a place for quiet reflection and solitude and we are all really pleased it has finally come to fruition. The peace garden is a great asset for the village.”

Mr Chetham said: “The idea of making a Peace Garden was first muted in 2003 by Geoff Coglan who was then chairman of the Huncoat Forum.

“Due to administrative and planning complications progress was delayed.

“But, in the Spring of 2009, the go-ahead was given and forum members started to draw up new plans for a self build scheme.”