A MUM inspired by her daughter to open a play centre for disabled people is finally set to see her dream become a reality.
The doors of Boomerang will open on Saturday after three years of hard work by Emma Birkett.
The 34-year-old could not find a safe place for her disabled daughter, Ellie, to play — so she decided to create somewhere.
And 10-year-old Ellie will be the first person to try out the slides and ballpools at the centre in Woodhill Street, Bury.
Mrs Birkett, of Swanage Close, Brandlesholme, said: “It’s taken three years of hard work and perseverance, but I am really happy that my dream is coming true.
“It was always my goal to have somewhere for Ellie and other disabled people to play — a safe environment where they could have fun and wouldn’t be judged.”
An open day will be held from 9.30am to 6pm on Saturday, when people can try out all the equipment.
There will also be a bouncy castle and visits from CBeebies character Mr Bloom and a man with reptiles.
Mrs Birkett decided to set up the charity in 2008 after being inspired by Ellie, who has autism, severe learning difficulties and mobility problems.
With help from a committee, she got to work planning and fundraising, securing grants worth £170,000 from Bury, Bolton, Oldham and Rochdale councils.
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