Opened in Ballymena in 1982, The Centre is marking its 'silver' milestone with a number of events including a 'Tower Centre through the years old photograph exhibition, the unveiling of a schools' community art mural and a car giveaway.

Tower Centre Manager Jim Somerville says: "This is an important milestone for the centre, which has been actively involved in Ballymena for a quarter of a century.

"So far, we have had a very full birthday year and have enjoyed working with local traders, Ballymena Council, local schools, charities and organised bodies within the Borough.

"The Tower Centre is one of Northern Ireland's earliest shopping centres and has seen much change and expansion over the years. We now have over 50 stores including local retailers and leading High Street brands," said Mr Somerville.

Organisers of the centre's birthday celebrations are encouraging couples celebrating their silver wedding anniversary or anyone celebrating their 25th birthday on October 6 to inform Tower Centre management.

Visitors to the Centre over the next four weeks can enter a competition to win a Ford 'KA', courtesy of Tower Centre in association with Lindsay Ford and the birthday celebrations will culminate in a centre birthday party on Saturday, October 6, with the Ford KA prize draw, prize giveaways, live music and family entertainment.

Some of 1982's most memorable events include Michael Jackson's "Thriller" which sold 20 million albums, Italy's victory at the World Cup, box office hit E.T., Delorean's bankruptcy and Larry Walters' infamous expedition involving himself, a lawn chair and 42 helium balloons – he ascended 16,000 feet before shooting the balloons with a pellet gun, landing 90 minutes later.