A UNIQUE arts and crafts centre in Halwill will celebrate its history in August, with a special reunion party.

The Winsford Centre, formerly the Winsford Cottage Hospital, is hosting a reunion garden part on Saturday August 18 for everyone who has ever been associated with the building.

Daniella Coughlin, the Winsford Trust's project manager, said: 'We are looking forward to meeting anyone who has had any connection with the hospital over the years.

'They might have been born here, given birth here, have been a patient at some time, have worked here, have had relatives who were patients here, or have been a volunteer. We hope to learn much that we can add to our historical archive.'

A Grade II* listed building, it was a gift to the parishes of North Devon from benefactress Maria Webb-Medley. She commissioned CFA Voysey to design and build the cottage hospital in 1899 in memory of her husband George.

Opened in 1900, it was christened the Winsford Cottage Hospital, in reference to the Webb-Medley's country house, Winsford Tower.

Maria died in 1919, leaving the bulk of her estate to her nephew Edward Costin, who assumed responsibility for the hospital.

The building served the community as a hospital for a century, and as a military hospital during both world wars. In 1999, the NHS decided to close the hospital. Led by the Winsford Hopsital League of Friends, the local community formed a committee in partnership with Age Concern Torridge to secure the ownership and development of the building for the benefit of the area.

The centre is now probably the only building designed by Voysey in public ownership. It retains many of its original features and remains almost entirely as conceived by the architect.

To find out more about the reunion garden party or to confirm attendance, contact the centre by e-mailling [email protected]">[email protected] or call 01409 221470.