MIDDLESBROUGH'S deputy mayor has completed a hat-trick of visits to a community meeting room.

As chairman of Middlesbrough Council's housing committee, Councillor Bob Brady opened The Courts Meeting Room, in central Middlesbrough, in 1985.

In 1995, he cut the cake at "The Room's" tenth birthday party while Mayor of Middlesbrough.

This week, he was back for a third visit, as chairman of the board of new owners Erimus Housing, to toast the centre's 20th birthday.

A number of other guests joined residents of Elder Court and Hazel Court who use the meeting room, including local police officers, housing officers and street wardens.

Coun Brady said: "The complex is a real asset to the community and greatly valued by its many users. I hope its success will continue and there will be yet more reasons to celebrate at the centre."

The complex, situated in Elder Court, was opened by Middlesbrough Council and is now run by volunteers, opening five days a week.

It is used by 200 people of all ages, mainly for fundraising and social events.

Joe Bennett, one of the centre's users, said: "It is well- used and it is in the heart of the community. We wanted to thank everyone who has supported it over the past 20 years."