AN AMERICAN whose grandfather built Darwen Tower is just one of the guests of honour who have been invited to the landmark's 100th birthday celebrations.

William Whalley is among 18 people who have come forward to say their ancestors played a part in the construction of the famous monument.

The builder from South Carolina has pledged to contribute to a special lunch being held for descendants of those who played a part in the project.

Tony Openshaw, Blackburn Borough Council's tourism and marketing manager, said: "We have had a good response to our appeals for relatives of people who have some connection with the building of the tower. "One woman has told us her great uncle won the competition staged to design the monument. We are hoping to track down more people before the celebrations."

A programme of activities is expected on June 22 to mark the original sod-cutting ceremony.

Ideas being discussed include, unveiling a commemorative plaque, handing out special Darwen rock and commemorative scrolls, Lancashire dialect recitals, fancy dress competitions, and a kite-flying display.

Anybody who believes they have some family link with the tower should write to Mr Openshaw at King George's Hall, Northgate, Blackburn.

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