AN historic gymnasium, donated to Leigh a century ago by the town's greatest benefactor, will spring back to life in time to celebrate the centenary of his death on October 5.

Coach Jill Orrell will be handed the keys to the Marsh Gymnasium in Ullswater Street after 11 months of negotiations to secure the building for Leigh Gymnastics Club.

She is now appealing for help from parents and volunteers willing to give a hand in cleaning up the Edwardian centre in time to celebrate the 100 years since the passing of William Edward Marsh who gave the facility to the town in 1902.

The club, based at Leigh Ex-Servicemen's Club, have had a busy time fund raising since last November.

They have organised a sponsored cartwheel and gym display which raised over £1,700 for new equipment and have received donations of £500 worth of paint from B and Q and a £200 donation from B D Croft.

The children have also paid £3 each to be photographed with the Marsh Memorabilia, have made a film of all the sponsored events and visited Mr Marsh's family grave in Leigh cemetery to say thankyou.

Jill said: "It's a shame that the memorial stone is tilting over, but we are hoping to get it straightened."

Jill plans to display the Marsh Memorabilia -- the 1928 Olympic medals won by two Leigh gymnasts who trained there, Ada and Hilda Smith, along with their Amsterdam memorabilia and other medals which were donated to the club.

And she is still hoping to find The Marsh Cup which according to presentation boards was last awarded in 1939.

Jill said: "Someone must know where it is. I would love to be able to award it again annually."

Jill can be contacted on 07791 868295.