AVONCROFT Arts Society is celebrating its 70th birthday on Saturday, July 9, with an exhibition of work from its members.

The society which is based in a purpose built building in Stoke Heath, is still going strong from its earlier days when it offered courses in ironwork, weaving and bookbinding, to the anniversary exhibition which will showcase everything from dance displays and sugarcraft, to art, textiles, ceramics, photography and calligraphy.

The exhibition is running from 10am to 4pm at the arts centre on Redditch Road, and admission is free. There will also be cream teas and other light refreshments on offer.

For more information, call the society on 01527 833829.

The youth club which meets at the centre on Wednesday evenings, will also be holding its last meeting on July 20. A spokesman for the society, said: “Despite all the efforts of the organisers, numbers have dwindled to such an extent it is no longer worthwhile to carry on. It appears that other clubs in the area are experiencing the same problems. The late George Verney founded the club and it is sad to see it close.”

The society has also released a collection of favourite recipes in a recipe book to mark the anniversary, which is on sale from the office for £5, with money raised going toward the society, which still needs to repair leaks in the roof in its main hall.

The spokesman said: “Investigations by the roofer found a damaged window that was letting water in. Not only that but it appears that the roof will need replacing in four or five years. The roof has been made weatherproof but the Society must now put money away for what will be another huge expense.”