A SPECIAL film has been commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the region’s best known leisure complex.

To mark the occasion there will be a series of events for all the family taking place at the Billingham Forum leisure centre.

In October it will be 50 years since the Queen graced the town to cut the ribbon and officially open the iconic leisure centre that holds many fond memories for residents across the Tees Valley.

As part of the celebrations an anniversary video has been commissioned, which will include original footage of the town and the royal opening, intertwined with present day interviews and footage.

Facility manager Roy Broadbent said: “The Forum has always been a big part of the community and we want as much involvement as possible from the people who have helped to make the centre such a success over the years.

“We’ve hosted some fantastic events over the years and welcomed lots of big names from the world of entertainment at the theatre. The 50th Birthday is the perfect opportunity to share our stories and come together to celebrate what makes Billingham great.”

Over the years countless stars, including Wendy Richard, Jimmy Edwards, Eric Sykes, Arthur Lowe, David Jason and Penelope Keith, have appeared in pantomime and plays in the Forum’s theatre.

The leisure centre is also home to ice hockey team Billingham Stars, who compete in the National Hockey League North.

The Forum underwent a multi-million pound regeneration between 2008 and 2011 when it re-opened with a programme of activities for the entire community.

The makeover, led by Stockton Borough Council with financial help from Tees Active, created more than 40 jobs and reinstated it as one of the region’s top leisure venues in the region.

And with a packed 50 years of history, the golden anniversary will be a way for the town’s community to get involved in the celebrations.

A number of informal coffee mornings have been scheduled at Billingham Forum for residents to come along and share their stories and memories from across the decades.

  • Sessions will be open to the public at the leisure centre on Saturdays July 8 and 15 from 11am – 1pm.
  • For more information contact Billingham Forum on 01642-551381.