A popular bingo chain is celebrating 20 years in Parkhead. 

Mecca Forge is holding its 20th birthday day on Saturday, September 5

Festivities kick off from 10.30am, including free birthday cake and tea in the morning, as well as a free commemorative glass celebrating the special day.

The club officially opened its doors as Mecca Forge in 1995 and remains the biggest bingo club in Scotland with approximately 14 million visits to date.

Eight committed staff members have worked at the club since it opened and have all witnessed some big changes over the years, including the longest serving employee in the company with 50 years’ service, James Muir (Jimmy).

He said: “This is a wonderful celebration for the region, and to celebrate it with seven others who have been here since the start is very special.

 “There have been lots of changes over the years, none more so than the caller having to select the bingo balls from a cage.

“In today’s world everything is electronic, bingo included!

“We filmed a birthday promo video that shows us, the staff, having a lot of fun with our friends.  We look forward to celebrating with hundreds of friends on Saturday.”

Paul McGlinchey, General Manager at Mecca Forge, added: “I’ve been working for the store for three years and it’s been fantastic.  It’s thanks to our customers and the wider community joining in that we’ve been able to celebrate such a fantastic success – I only wish I had been here since the beginning!

“Customers were given a commemorative glass when the club first opened 20 years ago and many of our customers can’t contain their excitement at receiving another ‘limited edition’ glass at the party.

“We are very proud to play the part we do in the local community. We’re really looking forward to everyone coming along to celebrate with us on Saturday."

The celebrations may not officially commence until Saturday 5 September, but customers can see a taste of the fun in store for them at the party - https://goo.gl/YOqeEy