THE popular and successful event to celebrate the life and achievements of Jennie Lee returns to the Lochgelly Centre on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 February.

Cowdenbeath Area Committee was told on Wednesday this year the event celebrates the 50th anniversary of the appointment of Lochgelly woman Jennie as the first ever Minister of State for the Arts in a British Government.

She took up that post on February 17 1967 and went on to found and establish the Open University.

The Friday event will run from approximately 10am to 2.30pm and will feature performances, displays and exhibitions by local schoolchildren.

Cowdenbeath Area Services manager Kevin Sayers explained that the programme includes the premiere of a play – Jennie Lee’s Homework Project – written by the Area’s own Wullie Hershaw and performed by pupils from Benarty Primary School.

He added: "Other attractions include songs and poetry from Hill of Beath, Crossgates, Kelty, Denend, Lochgelly South and Kelty Primaries; a performance by Cowdenbeath primary’s Ukulele Orchestra; and displays and exhibitions from Lumphinnans, Lochgelly West and Foulford Primaries.

"It is hoped that parents, grandparents and other relatives and friends will attend to see the performance.

"On the Saturday the Wullie Hershaw play will be performed again alongside one written and performed by the local branch of the Workers’ Educational Association (Scotland) – so there will be two premieres in one weekend.

"These will be augmented by performances, a range of workshops – on coloured glass, song, fitness and art, displays and exhibitions including a chance to visit the Open University archive via the Lochgelly Centre’s computers. The programme will run from 2-6pm."

Entrance on both days is free with those attending being given a free cup of tea or coffee and a cake. More details will be provided as the programme firms up. Details will also be published on the website – www.bejennielee.com