MORE than 1,000 people visited The Salvation Army's International Headquarters on Saturday 19 September when the building was part of the 'Open House London' event. The free event, celebrating London's architecture, allows access to more than 700 buildings in the city, often giving access to areas that are usually closed to the public. This was the first time IHQ has taken part.
Among the large number of people who visited the building, almost 500 took tours of the lower ground, ground and first floors (including the International Chapel and the office of the Chief of the Staff) with staff from the architect, Sheppard Robson, who explained the design and purpose of the building. As part of the tour each group visited the Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Robin Dunster, who was able to explain something of the international work of The Salvation Army. Many of the visitors made it clear how much they appreciated meeting the Chief and several of the groups could have spent much longer with her if time had permitted.
Outside the building members of Chalk Farm Band played in the morning and Regent Hall Band in the afternoon. Groups of passers-by on their way between St Paul's Cathedral and the Millennium Bridge stopped to listen appreciatively to the music.
Once in the building there was plenty for the public to see and do – an art exhibition sat alongside screens showing DVDs of The Salvation Army’s emergency work and the most recent Gospel Arts Festival from the Royal Albert Hall. Children were catered for with 'Ultimate Church', an interactive programme created by the UK Territory for use in schools. The cafe was so busy that popular dishes sold out quite early in the day.
Year books, copies of All the World magazine and other leaflets showing the international work of The Salvation Army were free to be taken away, along with a new leaflet about the building – designed for the occasion – which was appreciated by the public.
The day was organised by Commissioner Shona Forsyth (City of London Liaison Officer and IHQ Chaplain), who says: 'I am so grateful to all who played a part in this successful event.'
 Passersby enjoy listening to Regent Hall Band |
 The Chief of the Staff joins members of the public to listen to Regent Hall Band |
 Visitors sit in the Rotunda to watch a DVD about Salvation Army work |
 An architect from Sheppard Robson speaks to members of the public about the new International Headquarters |
