Celebrating five years at The Arc (from left): Dick Moran, Beth Wood, Drew Small, Sarah Parker, Alistair Lindsay, Sergio Taddia, Lucy Devenport, Natasha Boast, Lisa Hickey, Robin Clements and Jenny Clements.

There is an extra-special programme of events happening at The Arc in Weston Drive, Caterham-on-the-Hill throughout March to celebrate a very important anniversary.

It is five years since The Arc opened its doors to the public after a lengthy renovation programme which saw the dilapidated old soldiers’ gymnasium in the old Caterham Barracks transformed into an impressive Arts and Recreational Centre for the local community.

Since its official opening in March 2010 attended by Birds of a Feather actress, Linda Robson, thousands of people have passed through its doors to watch live performances of comedy and drama, attend its many exhibitions, join in exercise classes and take their children for a session in the popular Soft Play Area. As part of the celebrations, The Arc is holding a weekend of FREE taster sessions from 10am on 21st and 22nd March when there will be the opportunity to try out a host of activities including Musical Theatre, Drama, Dance, Art Circus Skills and much more.

Dick Moran, Chief Executive of the Caterham Barracks Community Trust, said: “It does not seem possible we have survived for five years. It has been a tough and challenging journey! The birthday celebrations have ‘aspire’ as the key word and that says it all - we are about ‘aspiration’.”

Artistic Director at The Arc, Beth Wood, said: “I would like to say a big ‘thank you’ to all the staff and volunteers who work at The Arc. We would not be here without the all the support we receive from them.”