THE MILLENNIUM Eco Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

The centre, based near Borras Quarry, is part of St Christopher's and was set up to provide children and adults with an opportunity to work outside and in a unique environment.

Since opening 20 years ago, the centre has helped restore an area of Borras Quarry into woodlands, planting over 6,000 native trees with local primary schools, run a range of educational courses for school students and developed a lifelong learning course for adults with special needs.

Stefanie Matthews, 19+ tutor at St Christopher's, said: "The 20th anniversary event was held to celebrate what the Eco Centre has achieved so far and to recognise all the work our development group put in, particularly the work and support from Breedon Quarry, Brother Industries and the many companies and individuals who make it a success.

"On the day we had a craft fair for local producers, a food demonstration from award winning chef Pippa Lace, live music from Luke Gallagher, a range of home made cakes on offer in our Café 96, barbecue food - prepared indoors as it rained all day, and our own honey known as Borras Bees Honey from the bee hives on the Quarry woodland.

"Special guests included the Mayor and Mayoress, Breedons Borras Quarry manager Ed Maurice-Jones and colleague Martin Davies.

"Students were involved in the planning and preparations for the day. They took on roles on the day such as car park attenders and helpers to the stall holders.

"The Eco Centre have received lovely feedback from visitors and stall holders about the success of the day, how much they enjoyed it and how they hope it will become a regular event.

"The Eco Centre would like to thank everyone involved in the success of the day and we look forward to the next 20 years."