MEMBERS of a community theatre group are set to mark years of hard work when they officially open their new base.

Earthbeat has spent months renovating the former Saltburn School after the group spent years searching for a home suitable for the needs of its learning disabled members.

The main use of the Earthbeat Centre will be for the theatre group to rehearse, train and perform but it will also offer a multitude of other community events and local businesses.

Tony Galuidi, who founded the group, said: “We are hopeful that local people will embrace the centre and find it a refreshing and welcoming place to be. There will be a café on site, which will be run by Julie Easley and Kathryn Shaw who have rented a space from us.”

There are also a number of spaces that are available to hire to the public while a number of courses and classes will be regularly held at the centre, in Marske Road.

Mr Galuidi added: “Our dance studio with its elegant arches and new floor, our large, fully equipped party/function room, our conference room and even our amazing 150 seat auditorium, with its spectacular retractable seating, will be available to hire every evening and weekend.”

The centre will formally open its doors on Saturday (February 7) from 9am when people will be welcome to roam around the centre and see for themselves just what the group have been up to.

During the launch there will be information about the various classes and therapies that will be available while Earthbeat will performing throughout the day

“The school has come along at a perfect time because 2015 marks Earthbeat’s 25th anniversary,” said Mr Galuidi. “On top of this, both the ladies and men’s captains of Saltburn’s own golf club have nominated Earthbeat as their charity of the year.

“Not only will the golf club raise some much needed funds for us but there will also be the opportunity to meet up and develop new friendships.

“Earthbeat has been granted a 50 year lease on the school so we’re going to be here for a very long time. We would very much like to share the building and its resources with local people so please come along and join us at the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and meaningful journey.”

If people are interested in hiring any of the spaces, they can call the group on 07969-623-118.