THE Friends of Stretford Public Hall have organised an Open Day on May 3 from 10am to 4pm, and the event will include tours of the building at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm.

The group wants to turn the landmark building on Chester Road into a multi-purpose community centre, with facilities ranging from an arts centre and a wedding venue to a youth club.

Visitors will be able to see the historic strutcure for themselves and have a say in its future by filling in the Friends questionnaire.

Daniel Williamson, a spokesman for the group said: “We hope this event will draw attention to the situation with this landmark building, giving people an opportunity to look around the hall and spend some time in there while they still can.

“This building was built for the people of Stretford and we intend to make it that way once more. We will be encouraging people to take part in our consultation questionnaire that will help us find out what people need and want in the area and show support for our plans. We encourage discussion about the future options for this building and encourage those that wish to help to join with us.”

Stretford Public Hall is a Grade II listed building built in 1878 by the philanthropist John Rylands and has had many uses, including the staging of youth theatre productions.

* Anyone interested in finding out more should contact Daniel Williamson 077715 11196 or email friendsofstretfordpublichall@gmail.com.

People can also visit the Friends website at stretfordpublichall.co.uk