YOUNGSTERS in Colne are celebrating after a playground was built to give young people something to do.

And Pendle Council is throwing a big party to mark the opening of the new multi-use games area.

Colne Neighbourhood Action Group has stumped up £25,000 for the new playground on the corner of Shaw Street and Colne Lane, in the Waterside ward.

Coun Alan Davies, Chair of Colne Neighbourhood Action Group, said: "We identified a lack of a games area in Waterside for young people and were keen to improve what facilities did exist.

"This new games area and playground is much bigger with lots more equipment, which can also be used by both older and disabled children."

The new area will have pitches suitable for playing football, cricket, basketball and hockey as well as an aerial runway, a zip slide and a climbing wall.

"It will also have a facilities suitable for disabled children and a skateboard simulator.

The facility replaces the old five-a-side football pitch and playground. It will be officially opened at 1pm next Friday by the Mayor of Pendle, Coun George Adam, and organisers want as many youngsters in the area as possible to join in the fun from 11.30am.

Andre Pomfret of Colne Neighbourhood Manage-ment Team, added: "We've organised a big party to celebrate the opening, and there's an open invitation to all Waterside kids to come and join in the fun.

"A DJ will be coming along to provide a soundtrack to the event, and children themselves can have a go at being an MC.

"From 1pm graffitti workshops will be running at the MUGA, and there'll be burgers and ice cream to help keep up our energy levels."