DOZENS of guests attended a drinks reception, before the Coronavirus outbreak, to celebrate a milestone anniversary of a popular East Yorkshire arts centre.

It has been 20 years since Pocklington Arts Centre (PAC) officially opened its doors to the public.

Since then the award-winning venue has welcomed more than 700,000 customers and performers through the doors, and has staged in excess of 6,000 live events, film screenings, exhibitions, workshops and private functions.

To mark the anniversary, a drinks reception was held at the venue, with invited guests, including Pete Massey, director, North – Yorkshire and Humber Arts Council England; air commodore Ian Stewart CBE, deputy lieutenant East Yorkshire; and civic dignitaries, staff and long-time supporters of the venue. Around 40 people attended the event.

PAC director, Janet Farmer, said: “What an incredible 20 years we have had. Thanks to the hard work, passion, commitment and dedication of so many we have transformed the venue into East Yorkshire’s premier arts venue attracting some of the biggest names from the world of music, comedy and theatre.

“It really is a reason to celebrate, so thought it was only fitting to host a drinks reception for key supporters of the venue, before everyone had the chance to enjoy our live show that night from the New York Brass Band.

“These are exciting times for PAC and it was a real privilege to share our milestone celebrations with so many guests.”

Past performers at PAC include Joan Armatrading, Richard Hawley, Lesley Garrett, Opera North, Sarah Millican, Kate Tempest, The Shires, Sir Tom Courtenay, KT Tunstall, Rhod Gilbert, Lucinda Williams, Shed Seven and John Bishop.