Sue Macinstosh warms her hands by the fire of one of the refurbished cottages at Bradford’s Industrial Museum.

Sue is a member of The Friends of Bradford Art Galleries and Museums who are celebrating their 50th anniversary next month.

The organisation, which has been involved in the refurbishment at the Industrial Museum, will hold an event called ‘Friends at 50’ at Cartwright Hall in Lister Park.

Photographs of events and activities the group has been involved with over the past half century will be on display, and there will be music by GMC Jazz Band.

The Friends support Cartwright Hall, Bolling Hall, Bradford Industrial Museum and the new Bradford 1 Gallery in Centenary Square.

As well as hands-on practical help for Bradford’s museum service, the group has raised more than £300,000, helping to acquire works by artists such as Anish Kapoor, David Hockney and Damien Hirst, hangings for the Ghost Room at Bolling Hall and Shire horses at the Industrial Museum.

Friends at 50 is on Saturday, September 18, from 6pm to 9pm and is open to non-members as well as to Friends.

Chairman Molly Kenyon said: “Our main aim is to promote public enjoyment of the collections and activities of Bradford’s museums and galleries. We have fine buildings, brilliant exhibitions and hard-working, creative staff. Our museum service is something for Bradfordians to celebrate.”

Friends at 50 is on Saturday, September 18, from 6pm to 9pm and is open to non-members as well as to existing Friends. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to book by September 13. For more details ring (01274) 546585/593585 or email petereynell@yahoo.co.uk