Laughter mingled with tears as Linkinhorne Parish Hall hosted its last community event on New Year’s Eve.

The hall in Upton Cross was built in 1963, and in the half a century since it has been a cherished asset.

But its leaky roof, dismal kitchen and chilly main room were becoming more of a burden.

So committee members, buoyed by a generous legacy from a former chairman, obtained grant funding to construct a new hall.

The New Year’s Eve event was a celebration of all the good times the hall has witnessed, and the chance for young and old to ‘leave their mark’; paint was provided and guests were invited to draw a picture, write a message or sign their name on the walls inside the building.

Drama and singing groups who have made Linkinhorne Parish Hall their regular meeting place gave performances during the event, including renditions of songs specially composed for the farewell do.

Those who remembered the earliest days of the hall were joined by the youngest of its users, the members of the Little Links Preschool.

A poignant moment came during the showing of a film by Robin Wotton, taken during the hall’s 25th anniversary luncheon.

The hall is now being prepared for demolition.