THERE were many fond memories of 50 years of events at the Thameside complex in Grays today (Saturday, 22 January) as the borough's centre for arts, culture and history celebrated its golden anniversary.

Though the future of the threatened complex, which houses Grays Library, the borough's museum and the much-loved Thameside Theatre, remains far from certain in the wake of Thurrock Council's cost cutting plans, its history was marked at today's event.

Throughout the day visitors attended to see an exhibition, prepared by the museum's volunteers, featuring treasured moments from the building's past.

And there was another chance to enjoy the recent pantomime 'Cinderella' which has been captured on film for posterity and attracted full houses to the theatre for two showings on its big screen.

Despite some press reports which suggest a deal has been struck to save the theatre, there remain several hurdles to leap before the building is passed on to a still-to-be-formed community interest company, but at least the vibes coming from Thurrock Council about saving the theatre and the building are more positive going into the new year.

For today though, concerns and speculation were put aside as memories came to the fore.

Thurrock Nub News visited the complex and while officials from Thurrock Council would not speak to us about the events of the day, local community stalwart and ardent Thameside fan Mike Ostler stepped into the breach.

In our video interview he recalls some of the key moments in the build's history - including a visit from the Queen when a last minute dash was required to find her favourite Earl Gray tea.

And Mike also recalled the challenge of getting a pair of ponies up to the top of a fourth floor just so theatregoers really could see Cinderella go to the ball! There will be two more screenings of the 2021-22 Cinderella tomorrow but tickets have sold out.