BLACKBURN Cathedral will this be the centre of celebrations this weekend marking the 40th anniversary of links between the Blackburn Diocese and the Diocese of the Free State (formerly Bloemfontein) in South Africa.

Hundreds of children from parishes are expected to attend 'fun-filled activities with a South African theme' on Saturday, from 10.30 am. to 2.30 pm.

On Sunday, a service, at 6.30 pm will be held in the cathedral to celebrate the anniversary. The preacher will be the Bishop of Lancaster, the Rt Rev Stephen Pedley. Guests from the Free State, the Rev Stephen and Mrs Maureen Latloenyane will be welcomed.

Choirs from St Paul's, Longridge, and St Oswald's, Warton, will lead the worship.