A SOUTH Craven venue is welcoming back regular user groups and planning a busy autumn programme of live events and films after a challenging past year.

The programme – at Glusburn Community and Arts Centre, in Colne Road – will launch with a streamed concert, starring Michael Ball and Alfie Boe, on September 11.

Before that – on Wednesday, September 1 – the centre is staging its annual general meeting in the studio, at 7.15pm. Glusburn and Cross Hills residents are invited to attend and will be able to nominate directors to assist with the running of the building, and vote.

A spokesperson said: “As has been the case for most public buildings, the past year has been a very difficult one.

“Whilst we managed to open in a limited way last September – welcoming back some regular groups and staging some films – we had to close again for the November lockdown. We then had to shut in January for the much longer restricted period. However, in between we were one of few venues which managed to put on a live show – The Snow Queen, produced and directed by Becky Durham of Falling Stars Theatre. There were eight performances during December and it was a magical experience for local children.”

The centre welcomes more volunteers – call 01535 630223 or e-mail debby@gicac.org.uk. For more about activities, visit gicac.org.uk or follow the centre on Facebook.