A MEMORIAL plaque to First World War soldiers has been re-dedicated after it was moved to a new home at Guiseley theatre.

The plaque is in memory of the former pupils of the Yeadon and Guiseley Secondary School - later Aireborough Grammar School - who lost their lives during the Great War.

It was moved to Guiseley Library after the closure of the grammar school in 1991 and it has now been moved again after the library re-located to Aireborough Leisure Centre.

Lucy Phillips, from Guiseley Theatre CIC thanked everyone who had attended the event.

She said: “The Board of Guiseley Theatre CIC were asked by Mrs Elsie Turner of the Royal British Legion, Guiseley Branch if they could become the home of the plaque and Guiseley Theatre are both pleased and honoured to be the new home for this memorial.

“There was a short re-dedication ceremony for the plaque, presented by Stephen Barber, and Father David Pickett of St Oswald’s Church. Mrs Elsie Turner of the RBL laid a wreath beneath the memorial, which was unveiled to members of the public by Mr Chris Ingram, Chairman of Guiseley Theatre CIC.

Mr Ingram said: “I am delighted for Guiseley Theatre to take over it’s custodianship on behalf of the community of Guiseley and the British Legion and as successors to Guiseley Library and Aireborough Grammar School.

“I find it of particular significance because I am an ex-pupil of Aireborough Grammar School (1959 to 1966) and well remember not only this particular memorial plaque but also the memorial board commemorating the Second World War.”

“Guiseley Theatre is a very appropriate home for this particular memorial plaque since the Theatre (then Guiseley Town Hall) was used as a War Hospital during the Boer War.”

Ms Phillips said: “Next time you pay a visit to the Theatre, please take a moment to have a look at the beautiful memorial which now takes pride of place in the Main Foyer.

“If you would like to know more about the plaque, or the men listed on it, Guiseley Theatre CIC would be very happy to show you the memorial and share Stephen Barber’s research with you. Please pop into the Guiseley Theatre office or give them a call on 07762563689.”

Speaking last month Guiseley and Rawdon councillor Graham Latty said the the theatre had agreed to find a space for the plaque after it was rescued by Mrs Turner when the library building closed.

“Now generations of theatregoers and users will see this plaque on entering the building and their names will be remembered anew,” he said.