Memories of community activities at Silsden’s parish church hall

Memories of community activities at Silsden’s parish church hall – together with people’s hopes for the future – are to be captured on film.

The project aims to create a permanent record of the bustling building, a central part of the town for two centuries.

Now people willing to appear and speak on camera are being sought.

The film – described by organisers as a celebration of the past, present and future of St James’ hall – forms part of the ambitious Project 200+ initiative, to raise £350,000 for a major refurbishment of the Kirkgate premises.

“The hall has served the community in so many ways – from housing primary school classes to hosting wedding receptions and lunch clubs – that it is absolutely bursting with memories,” said the vicar, the Rev David Griffiths.

“We want to hear all these voices and stories, but we also need people to share their thoughts about the years to come and how St James will continue to play its part.”

Filming takes place at the hall on September 22.

Young people – including Scouts, Guides and Brownies – are invited to take part at 10.30am, followed by those aged 25 to 60 at 11am, and the over-60s at 11.30am.

Anyone interested in contributing should contact the Rev Griffiths on 01535 652204.

A series of events is being organised to boost the renovation appeal.

A nostalgia day is being held on Saturday, September 15.

And An Audience with the Yorkshire Shepherdess Amanda Owen takes place on Saturday, November 24. Tickets are already available from Twiggs newsagents and the church.

Project 200+ will include renovations to the kitchen, new toilets, a sprung wooden dance floor and a patio for outdoor events, which will be accessed via modern French doors.

In the spring, a giant barometer was placed on the church tower to indicate the progress of fundraising.

Additional church committees have been formed to support the venture.

It is hoped work will start next summer.

The current hall, which is alongside the church, was opened in 1820 and housed the town’s first school.

Today it hosts a string of organisations including Scout and Guide groups and a pre-school playgroup, as well as church-linked meetings.

Around 500 people use the facility every week.

Over the Easter period, the hall became a community focal point during the town’s gas crisis.

Northern Gas Networks set-up a drop-in centre at the premises, to offer help and guidance to residents.

Virtually all of Silsden was left without gas when a contractor damaged a pipeline at the Barratt development off Belton Road, on Good Friday morning.

Supplies to some properties were down for several days.

The hall remained open throughout.

Nearly 3,000 heaters and other essential items such as heat plates were distributed, together with food vouchers for several outlets in the area.

The community earned high praise for the way it rallied round.