FIVE years ago, Malvern Youth Centre in Albert Road North was under threat of closure, with plans to develop the site for housing being mooted.

Town residents fought hard to keep it open and in 2012 the re-named Malvern Cube opened its doors, run by the community for the community.

Since then it has gone from strength to strength, and now hosts a huge variety of activities, ranging from University of the Third Age courses to exercise classes, drama and dog training.

It also provides a home to a number of support groups for vulnerable people, giving them the opportunity to meet in relaxed surroundings.

And its also provides a venue for the performing arts, including music gigs, film screenings, theatre production and comedy shows.

But even with all that activity going on, the Cube still provides space for regular weekly youth sessions, where young people can meet up with their friends.

To kick off the celebrations, the Cafe at the Cube baked a special birthday cake, which was cut by rock musician Chris Difford, of Squeeze fame, when he visited the venue to perform a rapturously-received sell-out solo gig.

Jon White, the centre’s manager, said that there will be plenty more at the venue going on to mark the anniversary.

He said: “Malvern Cube will be celebrating five amazing years with a series of Cube 5 events, to which the local community is invited “There will be music, drama, raffles and an open day, looking back at the much-loved ‘youthie’.

“So if anyone has old photos of themselves at the youth centre which could go on display, they’re invited to bring or send them to the Cube, where they’ll be copied and safely returned to their owners.

“We would like to thank all the people who regularly use the centre and continue to support this vital community facility.”