Richmond MP Rishi Sunak has spoken of the important role the Forum plays in the social and cultural life of Northallerton.
He was speaking at the community venue’s recent open day when the town’s residents were invited to see all the activities that are resuming there as Covid-19 restrictions are lifted.
During the latter stages of the pandemic, the Forum was used as the town’s vaccination centre, delivering more than 70,000 jabs over six months.
Mr Sunak said: “I visited the Forum right at the start of the successful vaccination programme and while everyone should be proud of the important work that was carried out here, it is great to see it back being used for what it was intended – a social and cultural hub for the town.
“The Forum is a fabulously versatile multi-purpose venue which hosts all sorts of fun activities and provides a home for many community groups.
“The open day was a great idea to reacquaint everyone with the amazing things that happen here after the long period when the building couldn’t be used for its primary function.”
During his visit, Mr Sunak spoke to many of the Forum’s user groups including the Northallerton Male Voice Choir, U3A and the three amateur dramatic companies that use the venue for their productions.
Children enjoyed magic and Punch and Judy shows and the chance to name a teddy bear who greeted everyone who arrived and also strayed on to Northallerton High Street to generate more interest in the event.
Anita Lee, Forum general manager, said the event had been a success.
She said: “We were delighted that so many people came to see what’s on offer in the Forum and very grateful that Rishi could come along and support us, our important volunteers and the many groups that use the centre.”
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