A COMMITTEE which was in danger of having to fold has received a massive membership boost -- thanks to the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.

In January membership of the Darwen Gala committee was so low, that it would have had to fold if one more person left.

But numbers have almost doubled after flocked to the latest meeting after reading an appeal for help. Vanessa Moore, treasurer of the Darwen Gala committee said it was great so many people turned up. It was a fantastic meeting," said Vanessa. "It was so nice to see people from Darwen showing an interest in the town's gala and the other members of the committee were so happy.

"It now means that the gala committee can concentrate on work rather than members fretting about whether the gala can keep going. This has been a very welcome boost to us and we now have fresh impetus and ideas to make the festival even better."

This year's gala takes place on August 18 and features several floats from different organisations.

The parade goes along the A666 and ends at the gala grounds.

At the gala grounds there is a fair and entertainment.

For the first time last year, the gala went on into the evening with an alcohol licence.

Such was the success of last year's event, the gala helped a number of charities raise money. This time round, the committee hope the entertainment will be even better and are appealing for local bands or acts to get in touch.

Vanessa added: "Ideally, we would have the entertainment provided purely by Darwen people.

"The acts have always been warmly welcomed by the crowds and I can guarantee more of the same this year."

If you are an act looking to play at this year's Darwen Gala, contact the Lancashire Evening Telegraph Darwen office on 01254 772591.