THE historic ballroom at Accrington Town Hall has undergone major renovations over the past three years transforming into an in-demand wedding venue but it has also undergone facelifts in the past as this picture from our archives shows.

Taken in 2002, it shows work underway in the Grade II listed building.

Originally built as the Peel Institution, the building was opened on Christmas Eve 1858 when 1,400 people packed in to hear a recital of Handel’s Messiah.

It became the town hall in 1865. Designed by leading architect of the time, James Green, the building’s most distinctive feature from the outside is the portico surrounded by six Corinthian columns which has seen a number of public celebrations including VE Day and royal occasions.

The ballroom itself boasts a sprung dancefloor and a large ceiling rose and decorative plasterwork.