A Walthamstow community centre is preparing to celebrate its fifth anniversary next week.

The Mill, in Coppermill Lane, opened in 2011 after a campaign to retain the former St James Street library building for community use.

In 2010, the building was on the brink of being closed permanently, before residents applied to Nesta’s Neighbourhood Challenge to help keep it open as a community hub.

The centre is now a volunteer-run organisation, offering space for groups to meet, drop in social areas and an active arts programme consisting of exhibitions, events and courses.

The Mill’s Volunteer Coordinator, Ruth Mitchell, said: “The Mill is a place that keeps your world quite round, and big; it’s a space for people across our community to come and interact.

“There is something for everyone, from knitting and sewing social groups and the children’s art club to language classes, yoga and personal development courses.

“You can even just drop in for a cup of tea and a chat or a game of cards.

“I think it’s just nice sometimes to have a place to go where people know your name, and are happy to see you when you come."

To mark its fifth anniversary, The Mill will stage a beach-themed party from 1.30pm on Saturday, July 9.

Activities on offer at the free event include a raffle, arts and craft for all ages, a photo booth and face painting.

For more information, visit: themill-coppermill.org.