A Royal British Legion branch in Radcliffe which opened earlier this year is holding a special event next month to mark D-Day.

The branch at St Philip’s Community Centre on High Dean Street is hosting the 1940’s-themed event to let residents know about the branch and its services, and to raise some money to support its work.

The branch, which has been open since January, offers advice and services to veterans and their families and holds weekly drop-in sessions.

The centre reopened in 2022 after being shut for a year following efforts by community groups including Radcliffe First and Growing Together.

Vice-chairman Barry Young said the branch replaces a former British Legion centre that closed in the town around 10 years ago.

He added that he hopes the new centre will fill a gap for services for veterans in Radcliffe.

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He said: “The new branch opened in January time, there was one about 10 or 11 years ago but it closed down due to lack of support.

“We’ve got a drop in centre every Wednesday for veterans and families who need any advice.

"We are eventually going to have more signposting for services like housing and we are hoping to run as an advice centre as there isn’t anything else like it in Radcliffe.

The D-Day event will take place from 12.30pm to 5pm on Saturday, June 8 with a host of family-friendly activities including face painting, craft stalls and a fancy-dress competition.

There will also be military vehicles to see, games, and a tombola.

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The daytime event will be followed by a 1940s themed party from 8.30pm until late with entertainment on offer including a singer and comedian, buffet, DJ and quiz.

People are encouraged to wear costumes on the day and there will be a prize for the best costume and decorated table.

Barry asked anyone who would like to enquire about setting up a stall for the event to contact him at poppy4radcliffe@gmail.com.