Chantry Centre Kicks Off Centenary Celebrations

The Chantry Centre officially launched its centenary celebrations on Saturday. Marking 100 years since the incorporation of the original forerunner of the charity, RA Lister Recreation & Social Club Ltd, in 1926.

The Club was established to provide recreation and leisure facilities for the rapidly growing workforce of RA Lister & Co. At the time, its structure was relatively unique: the Club was owned by Lister employees, and any profits were distributed annually to members in the form of a guaranteed return.

Over the years, the Club not only redeveloped the Long Street site, now home to the Chantry Centre, but also had a number of other facilities around Dursley, including what is now the War Memorial Recreation Ground.

Celebrating 100 Years

As part of the centenary launch, supported by grant funding from Dursley Town Council, a new display board was unveiled at the front of the Chantry Centre. Together with a series of internal graphic panels, the displays tell the fascinating story of the Club and the Chantry Centre over the past 100 years.

Visitors can also view a range of historical memorabilia, including a large plaque kindly lent by Dursley Heritage Centre. The displays will remain in place throughout the centenary year, and everyone is welcome to come along and explore the Chantry Centre’s rich history.

Events and Fundraising in 2026

Speaking at the launch event, Chair Adrian Judge highlighted the exciting programme of events planned throughout 2026. He also announced the launch of the Lister Hall Floor Appeal, which aims to raise funds to replace the existing wooden sprung floor - now around 70 years old!

Support the Lister Hall Floor Appeal

If you would like to make a donation to the Lister Hall Floor Appeal, please visit: www.chantrycentre.org/make-a-donation.

Picture shows unveiling of the external display on Long Street.

From Left to Right:

Mark Prowse (Chantry Centre Manager)

Andy Barton (Dursley Heritage Centre)

Mayor Alex Stennett (Dursley Town Council)

Adrian Judge (Chair, Chantry Centre)

Geoff Wheeler (Trustee, Chantry Centre)