RESIDENTS in Darwen were getting ready for the launch of the new leisure centre in October 1979.
The £560,000 investment in the facility had stirred some excitement and they were hoping to cater not only for the sporting pursuits but for pastimes of a less demanding kind.
The revolution for spare-time possibilities comes with the opening of the town's new leisure centre by Darwen MP Charles Fletcher-Cooke on October 13.
Combining the Darwen baths with a large sports hall and a practice hall, the new-look, it was hoped the new-look facilities should attract people from a wide area. Among the highlights of the new facility included: newly-designed locker facilities and 'automatic' showers.
Brian Smith, assistant director of recreation responsible for sports, said: "The centre is for leisure activities and not just for sports.We are hoping to provide a focal point for people to enjoy."
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