THERE was cause for celebration in 1988 as Millom got its multi-purpose sports and leisure  centre in Lancashire Road after a 10-year wait.

Workers from the Barrow-based contractor John Leck had raised the steel frame for the building in November 1987.

The project was expected to cost a total of £360,000 and the big opening was in 1988.

An article in The Mail, on July 16, noted: "More than 100 people watched as a commemorative plaque was unveiled by Millom MP Dr Jack Cunningham.

"Teenagers from Action Sport Copeland put the sports hall through its paces with demonstrations of basketball and table tennis.

"Although the giant blue-painted hall is marked out for sports it will be used for everything from antique fairs to concerts.

"But it will be a few days before it is in full use as builders are still busy outside on landscaping and the car park."

The new centre had space for four badminton courts but could also be used for exhibitions, school playgroups and demonstrations.

Copeland's leisure and amenity chairman, Cllr Robin Simpson, said: "It is one more dream come true.

"First was the baths at Whitehaven then the recreation centre at Millom.

"It was a long fight and I am sure a lot of people in the town thought it would never be built.

"We would like the whole community to use it, from the youngest people to the oldest, and we hope it goes from strength to strength."

Dr Cunningham said: "I must say it is a very impressive facility.

"I hope it will be used by the people of Millom as a whole.

"It is not just a sports hall but a recreation and amenity centre."

The Mail, on Thursday, May 19 in 1988, had announced the names of the hall's trustees as building work came close to completion.

A public meeting at St George's Hall chose Bob Slack, David Billing, Roger Murray and Dr Paul Patchett.

Already nominated by Copeland Borough Council were Arthur Butcher and Tom Broughton and Olive Townsley, clerk to Millom Town Council.

Among the many events held in the hall was a programme of half-term activities for youngsters in 1997.

The Mail, on October 30, noted that 12 different types of sporting activities had been laid on, including rounders and indoor cricket.

There was also a fancy dress disco with a Halloween theme.