Middleton Arena fifth birthday

Middleton Arena fifth birthday - Aidan King with his face painted

Middleton Arena have celebrated its fifth birthday on Saturday (25 January) by holding a birthday party and open day for visitors.

The arena opened its doors in January 2009 and has held successful open days in the past so decided for their fifth year celebrations to follow a successful format.

Duty Manager Toni Cooper said: “We have found that the open days are usually quite popular with people so thought we would combine that with a few birthday party activities for people to get involved with.”

Throughout the day, the arena held a variety of sessions including family zumba, football, gym sessions, pool sessions and gymnastics. These activities were combined with face painting, craft activities and visits from St John's Ambulance, the fire brigade and the police.

Toni added: “There has been a lot of interest in what is going on. We had birthday cake to give out to people but we have had to keep going to the shops to get more because we have had that many people through the doors.”

Over the last five years Middleton Arena has had a string of well known acts including Andy Parsons, Justin Moorhouse, Paul Daniels and Chubby Brown. Sir Steve Redgrave opened the arena in 2009 and Keri-Anne Payne officially opened the arena's pool.

“We have had a successful five years and have even had a visit from royalty,” said Toni.

Toni is confident that the next five years will also be a successful for Middleton Arena. She added: “Yes I think it will be another good few years but I am getting a bit older now so I don’t think I will be doing as many shifts!”