The Wall Heath Community Centre was opened in September 1961 and the Community Association Committee decided to arrange a number of events during 2011 to celebrate 50 years in the current building.

John Billingham was welcomed in July when he regaled his audience with reminiscences of life as it was in the 1960’s also including in his illustrated talk events of national and international importance,

In September an “Open Day” was held when all groups who regularly use the Community Centre displayed items from their archives relating to their activities fifty years ago

In October a concert was held in the presence of the Mayor of Dudley Councillor Michael Evans and the Mayor’s Consort Councillor Sue Greenway. During a most enjoyable evening we were splendidly entertained by Maggie O’Hara and comedian Doug Parker. Maggie had researched the music of the Sixties and particularly songs that were “Top of the Pops” in September 1961 and specifically during the week of the opening of the Community Centre. Doug Parker, having been born and spent his formative years in Wall Heath recalled many funny stories of life in the village in the 1960’s achieving a relaxed rapport with his audience. During the evening plaques were dedicated in memory of the late Milly Ingley who had been a founder member of the Community Association and served as it’s Secretary and President from 1955 until 2005 and also to the late John Lloyd who was Treasurer from 1985 until his death in 2010. It was pleasing to welcome to the event Martin Ingley, son of Milly and John Lloyd’s widow Marjory.

As part of the 50th Anniversary celebration s the Committee agreed to purchase one hundred chairs and are grateful for the support from local companies and organisations who generously sponsored chairs: –

Ashwood Nurseries

Jenny’s Kitchen

RBS Interiors

Roberto’s

Ashwood Nurseries

Special Looks

Wall Heath Dental Practice

Wall Heath Service Station

Wall Heath Tandoori

50 Plus Group

Indoor Bowls Club

Thursday Afternoon Club

Wall Heath Flower Club

Wall Heath Townswomens Guild

 

In addition assistance was received from the Small Grants Scheme of Dudley MBC