Holsworthy Memorial Hall was built in 1957 in memory of those who served in two World Wars. The hall’s original purpose was to provide recreational, social and educational facilities for returned servicemen and women. Over the years, the specific use of the building has changed and most recently it provided a multi-use facility for those who live in Holsworthy and the surrounding area.
Up until the early 1970s when the theatre was converted from the old cinema, the Memorial Hall was the venue for HATS productions. The last one held in the Hall was Mother Goose.
In April 2007 after nearly 2 years of closure, the Hall reopened after a major refurbishment. New layout, toilets, flooring and windows. Not to mention a state of the art commercial kitchen, and professionally run bar from the White Hart Hotel. Works funded by the EU, National Lottery, South West RDA, and Garfield Weston Foundation among others, including several private donors.
At this time additional rooms were named in honour of esteemed local people who had made a significant contribution to life in Holsworthy:
- Wright Suite named in honour of Arthur Wright, long serving Hall trustee and also an Alderman of Holsworthy
- Carroll Suite in honour of Ken Carroll, architect of the new Hall layout and chair of Holsworthy Hamlets Parish Council
- Shadrick Suite in honour of Des Shadrick, long serving Hall Trustee who along with Arthur drove the refurbishment programme, as well as being chair of Devon County Council and Torridge District Councillor
The Hall has weathered the pandemic, hosting walk-in clinics to support the NHS access all sectors of the community.
The Trustees look forward to the next stages of the Hall’s history. Looking at the climate crisis and introducing energy efficient measures where possible.
If you have pictures of the Hall in days gone by, or know more about its history, then please get in touch.