The Wyeside Arts Centre hit the big 4-0 this week and it will host its birthday bash in Builth Wells to celebrate four decades with a 1970s themed fundraiser party.

The building itself has stood in the town for more than 140 years but this year the special occasion marks 40 years since Lady Anglesey, chair of the Arts Council of Wales, opened Wyeside Arts Centre Limited on December 5, 1978.

Maureen Mackenzie, interim chair, said: “I am immensely proud to be Wyeside Arts Centre’s interim chair during this, our 40th year.

“During the last 40 years a great many people have worked hard to ensure Wyeside’s success, not just staff and trustees – but countless friends and volunteers who have given their time and effort to the organisation, ensuring its growth and prosperity over the last four decades.

“It was Donald Jones, our founder, who believed that only by enriching the cultural life of a community could the future prosperity of the area be secured.

Plans to improve the arts centre’s facilities - ‘Wyeside Works’ - have recently been revealed to the public. They include an additional cinema, expanded bar and catering facilities and better access throughout the 141-year-old building.

Maureen added: “It is in this spirit that we have produced our ‘Wyeside Works’ feasibility study and our ambitious plans to redevelop and reinvigorate the Wyeside, which will not only ensure our continued sustainability and growth, but also broaden the range of activities on offer for our valued supporters. This is an ambitious plan that will not only benefit all of the people of Builth Wells but also the communities of Mid Wales.”

Wyeside’s 40th Birthday Party takes place tonight, Friday, December 7, from 7.30pm at the Market Theatre.

“Since then, much of our success has been due to the support and dedication of our friends and volunteers,” a spokesperson said.

“Wyeside’s volunteers play a vital role in our organisation. They help us by stewarding for live events and films, serving customers on our bars, and help to publicise and market Wyeside’s 1,400 plus presentations each year. If you’ve ever bought popcorn or had your ticket torn - the person that served you was almost certainly a volunteer.

“We also benefit from the incredible support from our Friends. Established in 1980, the Friends of Wyeside have raised literally hundreds of thousands of pounds for Wyeside; money which has helped to provide everything from fridges and coffee machines, to match funding for major building work and refurbishment projects.

“To all of our Friends and Volunteers across the years, we would like to offer our most sincere thanks.”