A NEW centre is rising from the ashes after a Prestwich Scout and Guide headquarters was destroyed by fire more than 18 months ago.

The blaze ripped through the hut on St Margaret's Road in November 2002, but now a modern replacement -- St Margaret's Community Centre -- is beginning to take shape.

Having taken more than 12 months to gain planning permission and diocesan approval, work on the new centre and the two houses which will help fund the venture, is making good strides forward.

It is expected that around 250 children will use the building, which is scheduled for completion by the end of November this year.

The Scout and Guide Parents Committee has been working hard to raise funds to provide the best possible facilities and equipment, including a climbing wall.

And tomorrow it has organised a "Scout Mania" event in St Margaret's Vicarage Garden, from 4pm to 8pm, which if the weather is wet, will be held indoors at the church hall.

It will give an insight into some of the activities undertaken by Scouts and Guides, and there will also be a display from the local Bushido martial arts group who use the existing youth centre. A kids' disco will also be held, and refreshments include a barbecue.

The event is open to all, especially anyone wanting to know more about or get involved with the different organisations. New helpers are also welcome.

For more information, call 773-1895.

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November 2002 and the the internal ruins of the blaze-hit Scout and Guide hut on St Margaret's Road.