A GIRLS’ brigade is holding a celebration service to mark its 40th birthday.

The 1st Leigh Company of the Girls' Brigade, who meet at Wigan Road Methodist Church in Leigh every Wednesday at 6pm, would like to invite all past members and friends of the company to join them at the church on June 8 at 10.30am.

The brigade will not only be celebrating their anniversary but also the life of their founder member, Joyce Burkes, who passed away last June after serving the company in many ways for much of the 40 years.

The service will be followed by a bring-your-own picnic and games.