A LANTERN parade marking two years since a devastating explosion ripped through New Ferry will be held in the town this Monday.

'Into The Light', a procession of homemade lanterns crafted by local people at a series of workshops in recent weeks, will take place from 6.30pm to 8pm that day.

It will begin at the top of Bebington Road precinct around 6.45pm, with people being asked to arrive 15 minutes earlier.

The procession will move down to the event space on the bowling green on Circular Drive, Port Sunlight.

Members of the public wishing to attend the event can either join the procession or await its arrival at the bowling green.

The event will be hosted by Roger Phillips and include performances from Wirral Sign Choir Grove Street Primary and Church Drive Primary Choirs, poetry and more.

Wirral Council has working with local residents to develop an appropriate parade to ensure no-one forgets what happened to New Ferry on Saturday, March 25, 2017.

Council leader Cllr Phil Davies said: "From immediately after the explosion Council staff have been closely involved in both helping those affected by the blast and working on rebuilding the town centre.

"This lantern parade will ensure that the people of New Ferry know they have not been forgotten and will hopefully serve as a reminder to all those farther afield that the town continues to need our help and support.

"In order for this event to be a success we need the community to get involved, so tell your family and friends, come along and get involved."

Earlier this year, public consultation took place for possible residential developments for the area and now the council have given the green light to invest £1.3m to help bring the new residential developments alive.

The plans include buying derelict and dilapidated properties in the area, which are currently in private ownership, and demolishing them.

Earlier this month, the council approved £200,000 to support residents and businesses affected by the explosion.