A LIFELINE which helps people who have been homeless to rebuild their lives will celebrate its 50th birthday next week.

James Lee House, which is run by the Salvation Army, provides 54 beds for men and women over the age of 18 years experiencing homelessness in and around Warrington.

The facility, near the Cockhedge Centre in the town centre, was originally opened on July 20, 1968.

The house was named after the former general of the Salvation Army’s father-in-law James Lee.

Mr Lee was born in 1873 and he is best remembered for his work with the Salvation Army.

He served as bandmaster of the Salvation Army Band for 43 years before his death on April 7, 1943, at the age of 69.

Matthew Davenport, service manager at the Brick Street site, said: “We owe an enormous debt of gratitude to so many people who have supported James Lee House over five decades.

“I would like to give my thanks to the staff and volunteers who commit themselves wholeheartedly to the important work we do here.

“I particularly wish to thank the residents, past and present, who in their turn each create a lively home that provides a base for people experiencing homelessness to rebuild their lives and move forward into a new home.

“Since I’ve been at James Lee House, I have been privileged to witness so many people moving into employment, regain their confidence, learn new skills and move into a new home.”

At a cost of £150,000, the hostel initially provided modern single room housing for 127 men.

This was a huge improvement in accommodation to the previous bunk bed dormitory lodgings.

A celebration will take place on Tuesday to mark the anniversary of the homelessness centre on Brick Street.

The free event is open to the public from 1pm to 3pm.

Guests can look forward to cream tea, entertainment from the Salvation Army Band and chat with staff and residents from past and present.