Morton Hall seeks new Trustees

Morton Hall Community Centre, is looking for a new chair-person and additional trustees to help secure its continued place at the heart of local community life.

The Hall’s origins as a social club date back to 1939, when it was built for workers at the nearby Hovis Mill. It also doubled as an air raid shelter, with a tunnel running from Union Road directly into the building’s basement, so residents could get there quickly and safely. Many of those who use the venue today still fondly remember it from its former days. Subsequently, it was used as a youth club before being leased to the local residents who turned it into the dynamic and inspiring charity it is today. 

Macclesfield MP, David Rutley, met recently with outgoing chair, Jacqui Whibberley, alongside Treasurer, Mike Melia, and Trustee, Christine Tomlinson, to hear more about the charity’s future plans and how people can get involved to prevent the centre from having to close – if a new chair-person and additional trustees fail to come forward recruited.

On his visit, David was shown around the Hall viewing the range of facilities available for hire – including a main hall with stage, and meeting rooms. The extensive space allows the Centre to accommodate a wide range of groups, from fitness classes such as dance and pilates, through to choirs and music groups, and Spanish classes. With a recently refurbished commercial kitchen, the centre is able to host corporate and business events, as well as private functions such as children’s parties and monthly Community Coffee Mornings. 

Thanks to the time and investment made Mrs Whibberley and other Trustees, the Hall is now keen to take on more bookings.

Morton Hall relies heavily on the dedication and goodwill of its volunteer staff, more of whom are needed to help it fulfil its exciting plans to grow and more fully serve the community. Anyone interested in getting further involved can contact bookings@mortonhallcommunitycentre.co.uk, to find out more.

Speaking after the meeting, David said, “Morton Hall is a much-loved Macclesfield institution, and under Jacqui and her team’s leadership, the positive role it plays in our area has only grown more strongly. It’s clear the Hall has so much more potential to benefit the community, and I encourage local residents to find out more about how they can get involved. Getting involved will be a richly rewarding and a great opportunity to help save this valuable community resource from closure.”