PARISHIONERS of Our Lady of the Rosary celebrate 120 years of their parish in October.

Founded in 1879 the Plank Laners had to wait 60 years for the present brick church, built by the then parish priest, Father Dunn, in 1939.

On Sunday, October 3, at 10.30am there will be a special Mass of Thanksgiving for all the blessings received through the Church.

Father Peter Devlin, the present priest (pictured) said: "Over the years many people have been baptized in the church, made their first Holy Communion there and been married at the altar.

"Our Thanksgiving Mass is an opportunity for parishioners past and present to come together and give thanks for all they have received through their links with Our Lady of the Rosary Church."

In addition to the Mass there will be a reunion dance on October 8 at St Joseph's Hall, Mather Lane.

John and Nellie Flynn are life long parishioners and have been witness to the changes which Plank Lane has experienced over the years including "the closure of the pit and the demolishing of so many houses".

Despite the changes the Flynns said: "Many people have very happy memories of belonging to Our Lady of the Rosary and we look forward to welcoming many past parishioners at our Parish Dance."

Tickets for the dance cost £5 and can be obtained from the Parish House on 01942 673394 or John and Nellie Flynn on 01942 673856.

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