Central Coast Council is inviting lovers of comedy and history to an open day to celebrate the recently unveiled Spike Milligan Exhibition Space at Woy Woy Library on Saturday 1 September, 9.30am-12.30pm.

The first 100 attendees on the day will receive a limited edition commemorative Milligan tote bag.

Benjamin Hartley, Section Manager Library Futures and Planning wanted to thank the community for their patience while this one-of-a-kind space in honour of the comedic legend was created.

“This event is our way of showing our appreciation to the community for their understanding while we carried out works to provide a more active and flexible learning space,” Mr Hartley said.

“The permanent Spike Milligan Exhibition provides a unique collection of memorabilia that pays tribute to the beloved entertainer, his family and their special connection to Woy Woy and the surrounding suburbs.

“Come along and view the exhibition at your own leisure or join our incredibly passionate and knowledgeable Local History Librarian, Geoff Potter, who will be guiding visitors through the display and answering questions.

“The brand new short film ‘The Milligans of Woy Woy’, which was created especially for the Exhibition, will be on loop in the small theatrette.

“Art displays created by local schools, which will be incorporated into the Milligan collection, will also be revealed.”

The morning will offer numerous 'Spike' themed activities for the children to enjoy including face painting, craft and a special Ning Nang Nong Storytime that will be held on the new deck at 10.30am.

The morning will also celebrate the 70 year anniversary of Woy Woy Library, which was the first branch to open its doors to the Central Coast community on 13 August 1948 in the former Woy Woy Shire Council Chambers building, from where the library operates today.

The Spike Milligan Exhibition and refurbishment was made possible thanks to an $188,429 Library Council of NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grant and Central Coast Council.

Find out more about the Milligan's connection to the region at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/spikemilliganexhibition/

ENDS

Photos of Spike Milligan and the Exhibition are available on request.