CHILDREN had a great time when a big party was held to mark the first birthday of the Furness Funhouse, in Barrow.

The Mail, on Tuesday, January 24 in 1995, noted: “At least 200 youngsters went along to the activity centre, in Abbey Road, for more than three hours of party fun.”

Catherine Palmen was partner in the business with Geoff Keane.

She said: “The party went very well but it got much too busy for us to do anything else.”

Facilities at the Furness Funhouse, aimed at children aged up to 10, included a bouncy castle, climbing ropes and ball pools.

Parents could watch the activities and enjoy a cup of coffee.

Among those to be first to try out the new centre when it opened in January 1994 was Peter Brewerton, of Ainslie Street, Barrow and Zara Tucker, of Durham Street, Barrow.

Mrs Palmen said on the opening day: “We've seen these play areas out of town and thought it would be a good idea to bring one to Barrow.”