FAMILIES came out in force to enjoy a fun-packed event to mark a community centre’s landmark anniversary.

A summer fair was held to mark Festival Hall’s 50th anniversary, which was opened by Mayor of Southampton Sue Blatchford.

The hall, in Merry Oak Road, Bitterne, was opened in 1961 after the project was first drawn up in 1951 – the Festival of Britain year.

It was originally opened by Mayor of Southampton Councillor Elsie Willcock following an investment of £20,000.

Today the hall hosts the Manor Road Pre-School and continues to be a hub for the community.

Trevor Griffiths, treasurer of the hall, said: “Over the years it has become a hub of the community. We are on the edge of a housing estate and we have quite a few people from there come over. We are hoping to keep going for another 50 years.”