IT has been 60 years since the final touches were made to a Winchester community centre, and now the locals are celebrating the milestone birthday.

In true 1950s fashion a black tie dinner-dance will be held to mark the anniversary of Weeke Community Centre, including a performance from the Spitfire Sisters and their six-piece band.

It is run by volunteers, and caters for all age groups with local clubs and societies based there.

Gary Parfitt, 68, of Taplings Road, was among those who helped build it.

He said: “I was up there when I was just eight years old. It’s always been a happy memory for me because my friends and relatives come up there and we always have a great time. It is so well run. I’m looking forward to the celebration, it’s a special one.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

Above: The Chronicle cutting from May 1, 1954, when the centre was being built.

The retired railway worker said he would often go to the centre with his mother Ruth, now 92, and his father William, who passed away seven years ago.

At the dance he will be joined by other members who helped build it - Dave and Lin White, Tom Shore and Cath Pascoe, and Mayor of Winchester, Cllr Eileen Berry.

Sixty of the 130 tickets have already been sold, and organisers are collecting donations for the raffle from Costa Coffee, Waitrose, Coral and Winchester Automatics.

Centre manager Gemma North said: “We would like to thank the North Winchester Community Church for all their help in preparation, local businesses and the previous and current committee and all the members for continuing to support the centre. Here is to another 60 years!”

The dinner-dance on Saturday, October 18, kicks off at 7.30pm, and tickets include a three-course meal. Members’ tickets cost £15, non-members £20.

To book call 01962 888547, or email info@weekecommunitycentre.co.uk.