THE East Lancashire Group of the Alpine Garden Society celebrates its twentieth anniversary on Monday, with a special celebration meeting at Ramsbottom Civic Hall.

The Jim Lever Memorial Lecture for 2006 will be presented by renowned nurseryman and media personality Jim Jermyn from Berwickshire, speaking on The challenge of growing some of Europe's finest alpines'.

A special anniversary cake has been ordered and members will be able to enjoy the usual mix of plant, seed and book sales, a raffle, free parking and light refreshments.

Old and new members are welcome to attend the event, which begins at 7.30pm at the civic hall in Market Place.

The group's major event, the annual National Alpine Flower Show, will be held at a new venue in Bacup Leisure Hall, on Saturday March 24.

Further details on all events are available from secretary Cliff Booker on 01706 356385.