Community members are invited to shape the future of one of Northumberland's oldest village halls.
The Wylam Institute marked its 130th anniversary with celebrations from April 10 to 12, reflecting its longstanding role at the centre of village life.
The institute, constructed in January 1895 and officially opened by Sir JWH Riddell on April 11, 1896, has welcomed generations for assorted gatherings.
The Hexham Courant in 1896 outlined its features: "having a large hall for public lectures, bazaars, meetings, tea parties and balls," along with a reading room and two reclining baths.
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The anniversary event saw the Institute host an exhibition titled Past, Present and Future, featuring photographs, stories, plans, and programmes, chronicling its rich history and the evolution of the building.
The exhibition ran from Friday to Sunday, April 10 to April 12, engaging visitors with a coffee morning with village historians and trustees, and a film night featuring Sherlock Holmes.
Looking forward, the institute is set to continue serving Wylam and its residents, with a community consultation underway until May 31.
The consultation aims to gather feedback on potential redevelopment strategies and suggestions for new activities or services beneficial to the village.
Residents can voice their ideas via a three-question survey available on the Wylam Institute website or in paper form at the Institute.
The Institute invites individuals keen on volunteering or becoming a trustee to email wylaminstitute2@gmail.com.
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