Bedworth Civic Hall celebrates 40th anniversary

[dutchman]

The red carpet greeted guests as a weekend of live entertainment got The Civic Hall in Bedworth’s 40th anniversary off to a magnificent start.


Guest singer Robyn Mellor, Lee Mead, Mayoress Elaine Copland and Mayor Bob Copland

Shows by Jonathan Creek and QI star Alan Davies and West End favourite Lee Mead were rapturously received by patrons at the High Street venue.

And to mark the milestone, a plaque was unveiled by Nuneaton and Bedworth Mayor Coun Bob Copland, in the presence of Coun Dennis Harvey, Leader of Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council and Coun Ian Lloyd, Portfolio holder for Arts and Leisure before Lee Mead took to the stage.

Nuneaton and Bedworth Mayor Coun Bob Copland said: “This is a fantastic facility which was welcomed by everyone far and wide when it opened in 1973, not just in Bedworth but in Nuneaton, Coventry and Hinckley.

“Over the years it really has gone from strength to strength and we are delighted to be able to celebrate 40 years as well as firmly looking to the future.’’

Also present were Ileana Walters, who’s late husband Bryan officially opened the building in September 1973, in his capacity as Clerk to the Bedworth Urban District Council, Tony Cartwright and Mick Poole of Nuneaton based A.R Cartwright who recently installed the new stage and auditorium floor, representatives from the Research Garage, of Eliot Park, Nuneaton, which is also celebrating its 40th anniversary.

Maurice Haynes, who laid the first brick when the venue was built, also attended as did Brian Walker who organises afternoon ballroom dancing at the venue featuring the music of Alan Bowdler from The Blackpool Tower Ballroom.

Brian said: “Our members cannot wait to try out the wonderful new maple floor which now graces the main hall. The previous floor lasted 40 years and was excellent, the new floor looks even better and I know dancers from the area are eagerly awaiting the events.’’

Tim Norton, general manager of The Civic Hall, said: “It was a tremendous way to start celebrating our 40th anniversary and we would like to thank everyone who attended at the weekend, and who have helped support the venue over the last 40 years.

“We have a tremendous package of live entertainment planned for the next 12 months, including 40 new initiatives which point firmly to a successful future for the venue, not just for the coming year but for decades to come.’’