A LAVISH ceremony marked the opening of Prestwich's new water feature: The Retreat.

More than 200 people, plus a host of VIP guests, were entertained in the Longfield Centre on Monday as the glass and granite structure was launched.

A year ago, the former Prestwich Village Green was a mound of muddy grass and cracked paving, but now the shopping precinct boasts an attraction to rival any city centre creation.

Shoppers and traders had waited months for the project to be completed, and many had complained about the delays, but the general feeling at the launch was that The Retreat was well worth waiting for.

Toastmaster Elissa Baker led the proceedings and spoke about the work behind the project. Costing £350,000 and funded by the North West Development Agency, Countryside Properties and Bury Council, the water feature was designed by public artist Isabella Lockett.

She involved 500 local people and they contributed poetry which has been engraved into the sculpture.

Poetry readings on "My Secret Garden" and "My Special Place" were given at the launch by youngsters from Our Lady of Grace Primary School, Sedgley Park Primary School, Heaton Park Primary School, Parrenthorn High School and Manchester Jewish Grammar School. Adults from the Creative Living Centre in Prestwich were also included.

Guests were treated to a dance performance by pupils from Prestwich Community High School. And there was a balloon release to reflect the fact that Prestwich was "on the way up".

Councillor Keith Grime, chairman of Prestwich Area Board, said: "Prestwich Precinct is just about to take off and this will be a real focus for the town."