A PRESTATYN historian premiered his latest blockbuster book on the history of The Scala on the day of its grand opening.
Fred Hobbs has spent two years researching the story of the Scala Cinema and Live Theatre and produced a book entitled Friends of the Scala.
The book is dedicated to the memory of his late wife Sonia Hobbs, who herself was a very active community worker, raising thousands of pounds for her chosen charities.
Fred has donated his book to the Friends of the Scala, who have worked tirelessly to see the Scala rebuilt.
Fred has lived all his life in the town apart from his years spent in the forces during World War Two and has collected many stories about the people of Prestatyn.
The story of the Scala began in 1901 when it was built to be the Town Hall of the growing town.
A scandal arose from this and Fred records it in his book. He has also collected many old photographs and images throughout the years from1901 to 1963 when Saronie, the then owner retired, and sold it to Prestatyn Urban District Council.
The history of this building makes for interesting reading and will provide every reader with a background of how the town evolved and expanded to become what it is today.
This is a book that has been written with accuracy and Sandra Pitt, Chair of Friends of the Scala, made sure that many who worked in the cinema or those who had fond memories of spending happy times in the cinema in its heyday, have been given the chance to share their stories.
Source: Rhyl Journal – Published date: 01 July 2009 by Terry Canty