OLD memories of Alva are being sought for an upcoming heritage day to be held at the Cochrane Hall.

It has been 90 years since the hall was gifted to townsfolk by the successful Cochrane brothers and the Alva Development Trust – current owners – are hoping to mark the milestone by showcasing the area’s rich history.

Two days of celebrations are being organised for November 29 and 30 and local community organisations have been invited to put on display their journeys over the decades.

Visitors will also have the chance to learn about the old railway that used to connect the Hillfoots towns, with the trust issuing a call for information and photos related to the old line.

The many woollen mills of the town and even the silver mine dating to the early 18th century will also be on display.

More than 20 local organisations are set to take part to date, but organisers are keen to make sure no one is being missed out.

Mary Laing, chair of the trust, said: “We also want these organisations to show new generations what is available [in the town] and how we can all come together to become a part of the community.

“If anybody has any old photos, any videos, any information from pre-war years, anything that we can display [please get in touch].”

Back around 90 years ago it was the Lord Lieutenant of Clackmannanshire, Walter J F Erskine – the 12th Earl of Mar, who declared the hall open.

Mary was pleased to secure current Lord Lieutenant Johnny Stewart to officially open the heritage day at the event, which will start at 11am on Friday, November 29.

She added: “We hope to make it a really fun day for everybody and also, one where the whole community can come together.”

Saturday, November 30, will also see a St Andrews Day Ceilidh with the Jack Delaney Band from 7.30pm.

The Cochrane Hall has been busy since the trust took it over from the council a year ago with groups taking advantage of the facilities on a weekly basis.

As it has been for years, the hall is popular with kennel clubs who bring a variety of annual dog shows to the area.

And it has proven popular with locals too, there has been everything from birthdays through weddings to funerals held there.

Hardy volunteers have been busy doing what they can to refurbish the premises and hope to keep it open for years to come.

Mary added: “We are doing well but we want more people to be aware of the hall and that they can use it, it’s for local people predominantly.

“Our grassroots mission is a local community anchor hub for the local people.”

Those wishing to submit photos for the event can contact organisers through the Alva Development Trust Facebook page.