Centenary Celebrations begin

Denis Sewell, chairman of Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council officially opened the Saltburn Community and Arts Association Centenary Exhibition at the town’s Community Hall last week.
It is 100 years since the former Methodist Church, now Saltburn's Community Hall and Theatre, was first opened on the corner of Windsor Road and Albion Terrace.
The foundation stone of the building was laid in 1909 and it was opened on April 28, 1910. The building was a place of worship for Primitive Methodists until 1969 when a dwindling congregation prompted a merge with the Wesleyan Chapel in Milton Street.
The exhibition celebrated the history of the building with fascinating items and period local photos.
Saltburn Arts Association arts development promoter Wilma Gardiner-Gill said: “Since 1970, an ever increasing community use has been found for the premises which have been sensitively adapted and modernised while retaining many original features, which allowed a listed building status in 1999.”
Cllr Sewell and his wife Julia have been enthusiastic supporters of the association for many years. At the opening, he praised the “wonderful volunteers” who continue to provide a marvellous programme of events, year in year out.
Following the exhibition the association has also planned a year-long programme of events.
Highlights include free monthly recitals at the on-site community theatre and the arrival of actors Robert Powell and Gabrielle Drake for a show - 100 Years of the Silver Screen - as part of the Annual Film Festival on May 15th.
Souvenir centenary calendars are still available from SCAA Ltd priced £1.