Our History

1963

The Early Years

In 1963 the centre was opened as a purpose-built Youth and Community Centre to support the growing youth population of Kirkby. The needs of our young people in Kirkby has changed over the years, but our commitment to being led by young people and to meet their needs has stayed constant. In 1963 Sir Harold Wilson laid the foundation stone on 11th October 1963.

1965

Princess Margaret Visits

Princess Margaret flew from Liverpool Airport after a 5-hour flying visit Merseyside. With the sound of pop ringing in her ears during her visit she opened a new £42,000 youth centre at Gateacre and made a visit to Centre 63 as we were a newly established youth centre at the time.

1988

25 years

Kirkby’s Church of England Youth Club Centre 63 celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a week-long series of events. The event was attended by Lord Wilson who opened the all-weather playing court.

1996

Fire at Centre 63

On 1st June 1996 a fire started in the snooker Hall of Centre 63, resulting in the destruction of the hall and damage to other parts of the building. Despite this major setback, the Centre Youth Club still opened the next day.

2003

40 years

On the 1 st November 2003 Centre 63 opened its to the community to help celebrate its 40th Anniversary. It was a pleasure to see so many people join in the celebrations. The Mayor and Mayoress of Knowsley arrived and released 200 balloons for the balloon race competition.

2013

50 years

In October 2013, Centre 63 celebrated its 50-year anniversary at Formby Golf Hall Resort. We were joined by past and present staff, volunteers and Trustees. It was a joyous occasion and young from seniors performed songs and played piano.