THE official launch of the Redditch Monopoly edition to mark the 50th anniversary of Redditch as a new town takes place on Thursday, December 5 at 1.30pm.

It will be launched at Uncle Moneybags in Worcester Square, Kingfisher Centre, Redditch town centre followed by opportunity to ride on a Monopoly bus to other areas of Redditch.

Next year marks 50 years since Redditch was designated a new town. This was a significant event which shaped the life of the town. A number of events and activities are being planned to mark this important milestone and the Redditch edition of Monopoly is one of them.

The game is based around the town centre and features current landmarks and streets as well as some of those lost as part of the new town development, such as Kingfisher Hall and Evesham Street. The aim is to bring generations together through playing the game while learning about this important event in Redditch's history.

A special bus playing piece, unique to the Redditch edition, has been produced included in the customised Monopoly box.

Redditch Local History Society has also produced a booklet detailing information on the lost streets which will be given away with the game.

It costs £29.99, the same as standard Monopoly versions, with profits from sales to be pumped back into events to promote the town centre including next year's “So Redditch Festival” - the programme marking the 50th Anniversary which is also being co-ordinated by the Partnership

The game has been developed by a project team from Redditch Town Centre Partnership, working with Winning Moves, the company officially licensed by Monopoly makers Hasbro to produce location specific versions.

It has been funded by local businesses and organisations including primary funders the Kingfisher Shopping Centre, NEW College and Diamond bus company.

Many other local businesses are also supporting the game.