PAST and present members of a local community centre came together to celebrate a huge milestone it the club's history.

Portland YMCA had a party to mark its 100-year anniversary. The charity has been operating on the isle since 1919.

Speaking about the history of the organisation, Amanda Spencer, coordinator at Portland YMCA, said: “In 1919 we acquired an Australian Army Hut which was brought over from Chickerell Army Camp which began the start of Portland YMCA. It was officially opened by The Countess of Malmesbury.

"Over the coming years the YMCA offered Baths for the local community to use as not many houses had bathroom facilities, a library, snooker tables, football, tennis courts and card games.

"By 1995 the hut began to deteriorate and after contacting Sport England and other funding bodies we were lucky enough to be able to erect a new building. The opening of the new building happened in February 1998.

"The new building allows us to offer the community a first class cardio and weights room, children's parties, accommodation, sports activities and community activities."

The anniversary event was a great chance to reflect on how far the group has come in the past 100 years. A cake was made specifically for the occasion, with one half representing the old hut and the other representing the new building.

The centre has also been hosting special 'bounce and play' sessions during the celebrations, to let the children have fun on bouncy castles while the adults have a chat over a hot drink.

Amanda added: "On December 20 we put on a celebration lunch for our 100th anniversary. We had a fabulous day with former members of the YMCA. Great stories shared.

"We brought the community together and shared all our memories.

"We managed to get hold of a lot of people who were members of the old hut. We put on a three-course dinner and they all talked about the good times they had in the old building."

"We hope to still be here for at least another 100 years.

"We try and put on as many activities as possible and always interested to hear from the local community what interests they would like to see here at the club.

"Our next project is to upgrade our Gym Weights Room.  We have lots of fundraising to do over the coming year to help with this.  First will be our Ladies Night in March.

"If anyone would be kind enough to give a small donation please email mandy.spencer@portland.ymca.org.uk  or Tel: Amanda Spencer 01305 823761."