The Swan Theatre Amateur Company is presenting the play Cider With Rosie at the Swan in June.

In normal circumstances, it would be too early to be telling you about this.

However, on the Monday of the run, June 20 to be precise, it is a very special anniversary - 40 years to the day since the opening of the Swan Theatre.

The first ever performance came two days later and, interestingly, it was the same acting company that performed on that day in 1965, the play being One Wild Oat by Vernon Sylvaine.

We are going to make it a real celebration night, and invite lots of VIPs and dignitaries.

The new patron of the theatre John Doyle will be there, his first official engagement.

We also want to invite anybody we can find who was at the opening or in that audience at the opening performance 40 years ago.

If you were there, please do get in touch, and come and join us in June.

We hope to make it a night to remember.

I guess that for those who remember those early days, it certainly won't feel like 40 years on.

Where does that time go?

The Swan has seen some ups and downs during those years, but is at present as strong as it has been for some time.

The future is rosy for many more years, provided that the building holds out. Here's to the next 40 years.

Remember, if you were in the theatre for that first performance, or at the opening on June 20th. 1965, give me a ring on 01905 726969.

Chris Jaeger is Director of Huntingdon Arts