A new sign for Denver Village Hall was unveiled today to mark the 50 anniversary of the hall, which was rebuilt after the previous one burnt down.

Villagers came to the hall which was decked with balloons, to enjoy a cup of tea with a slice of celebration fruit cake and to look at historical pictures on display of Denver, Denver Sluice and Ryston.

Chairman Reg Rose, who organised the event with his committee members, also provided the guests with music as he played his keyboard, which saw people leave their chairs for a dance just as they did years ago.

Mr Rose, who lives in Denver and has been chairman for around nine years said:

'We are celebrating 50 years of the hall over three weeks. Last night we had a band from Essex and the hall was packed out.

'There is always something going on here every week, it's a very busy hall. There's bingo, yoga, line dancing and it's a very popular venue for baptism receptions.

He added: 'I would like to thank the parish council for giving us a grant every year and all the hard work the volunteers do.'

The hall is also popular with young people - John Redcar has been running a youth club there for the past 38 years.

He said: 'It is something for the children of the village and goes well with a healthy school and it's good to keep it going as there aren't many youth clubs anymore.'

Denver village hall has been the hub of the village for many years and people have come for years to socialise.

Pam Batterham from Downham Market has been a regular visitor since she had her wedding reception in the hall 48 years ago.

She said: 'I come to play bingo every other Friday, it has a great atmosphere, very friendly. I am very glad to be here.'

The three week celebrations for the halls 50th birthday set to continue into May.

There will be a children's African dance workshop with Anna Mudeka on Saturday May 3 and a charity dance with The Strollers on Saturday May 10 in aid of East Anglian Children's Hospice.

For further information on these events call John Redcar 01366 384839.