West Loftus Primitive Methodists

This building which is now the Grace Community Church, stands on Deepdale Road, it was originally a Primitive Methodist Chapel, but not the the first built in this area.

Loftus Primitive Methodists

The original chapel built in 1911, was a short distance away at the top of Loftus Bank where there’s now just a small park.

Most likely the 7th September 1910 is this date appears on the current building from East Cleveland Image Archive
Septmeber 1911 opening from East Cleveland Image Archive
Opening ceremony report from Whitby Gazette – Friday 09 June 1911
Primitive Methodist Chapel and School at Bank Top from East Cleveland Image Archive

The chapel was damaged by a major landslide in September 1929, but it can be seen that elements of the original were reused in the rebuild such as the details above the large window.

In the foundation laying ceremony of the original it can be seen that there were rows of bricks with initials of the congregation / contributors.

These bricks would appear to have been reused extensively in the rebuild.

Loftus Primitive Methodists
Loftus Primitive Methodists
Charles Walter Starmer Manager of the Northern Echo / Mayor of Darlington opened the original church in 1911, it looks like laid the foundation stone on 7th September 1910
Loftus Primitive Methodists
Joseph Toyn was President of the Cleveland Miners’ and Quarrymen’s Association from 1875

Loftus Primitive Methodists

Loftus Primitive Methodists






Skelton History Group Walk -Skelton – 900 years of history

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Wednesday 20th November – (01) Skelton – 900 years of history

Distance: 1½ miles; Ascent 120ft; Duration: 2-2½ hours

Meet at 10:30am outside the Wharton Arms on the High Street. This walk will be based around the Mosaic Trail which runs through the village. The walk’s full title is “900 years of history in 900 yards”

A charge of £2 per person will be made on each walk to offset the costs of Insurance. Please wear appropriate footwear and have clothing suitable for the likely weather conditions on that day. On the longer walks, it is suggested that you bring food and drink as we usually stop between midday and 1:00pm for a lunch break.

Further details can be had from: skeltonhistorygroup@gmail.com or by contacting Peter Appleton (Tel: 01287 281752)



Empire Theatre, Loftus

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The Empire Palace of Varieties first opened in 1911.

The original building seen in 1932

In 1937 it was rebuilt as the Empire Theatre, which was open until 1959

Photo of the interior from Cinema Theatre Association Archive

It returned as a bingo hall for several years and then reopened as a cinema in 1977 until a final closure in 1983.

Empire Theatre, Loftus
The remains of the site today

The site on Deepdale Road is currently derelict with planning permission for flats.