THE sun shone on Saturday when people gathered to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the Where Next charity.

Visitors caught up with old friends and congratulated those who were integral to the organisation's creation.

Redditch Mayor Diane Thomas cut the ribbon to officially open the Where Next Wood.

Visitors wandered round the newly installed paths and information boards showing the work carried out over the years to transform it from a rubbish tip to a wildlife haven.

Long service awards were presented by Pam Williams, one of the charity's founder members, to trainees who have worked at Where Next for up to 20 years.

Between them they have clocked up more than 500 years' service. Each person also received a voucher for a pub restaurant meal.

A professional wind quintet also played jazz and classical music, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the celebrations. Jacqui Smith MP struggled back from London through the traffic chaos following the second series of bomb attacks to join in.

An exhibition of future plans and displays showed activities over the 21 years and a horticultural quiz had people walking around looking for Latin plant names among the shrubbery.

A spokesman said: "Where Next wishes to pass on its thanks to all the volunteer helpers without who the event wouldn't have been possible and to the Royal British Legion and Community House who loaned their car parks.

"Also to WHSmith, Sainsbury, The Butcher Boy and Mr and Mrs Palmer for the donation of raffle prizes and to everyone who attended to join the fun."

The day ended with the annual meeting under the gazebo.