Peter Kent-Baguley

As Chairman of the City Council's MITCHELL MEMORIAL YOUTH THEATRE COMMITTEE I had a meeting with the Theatre Manager, STUART CLAMP, to discuss colour schemes, tenders and programming for the internal redecoration of the theatre. I was instrumental in getting the committee set up some eighteen months ago. I was delighted that the Annual Council meeting on 1st June re-elected me chairman. I am keen to ensure its internal refurbishment is carried forward, external maintenance backlog is dealt with and to steer the 50th anniversary celebrations which will extend over four weeks in October 2007.

Incredibly, the Lord Mayor of Stoke-on-Trent launched the nationwide appeal for the memorial building in 1943 when resources were scarce and the war was still to be won. The original idea was that it would be a multi-purpose youth centre with a theatre, gym, meeting rooms and so on. Only sufficient money was collected, however, for the theatre part to be built. Nevertheless, it is an excellent memorial to REGINALD MITCHELL, the designer of the Spitfire, which played such a crucial part in the Battle of Britain.

It is perhaps the best example of '50s architectrure in North Staffordshire and I have asked our City Council conservation officers to seek to have it Listed by English Heritage. The City is indeed fortunate having such a wonderful Youth Theatre.