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A North Yorkshire community that once had a tin hut for a village hall will soon see a refurbished building on their doorstep, thanks to a grant from the Big Lottery Fund.

Escrick And Deighton Committee’s ‘Upgrading of Escrick and Deighton Village Hall’ project has received £144,204 to breathe new life into a community building located in the village of Escrick, and also serving the nearby village of Deighton, near York. The current building replaced the ex-army tin hut so well remembered in the local area and it is now in need of urgent attention.

The close-knit local communities have secured a slice of the Big Lottery Fund’s Community Buildings programme, which is today making 35 awards worth £9,664,199 for bricks and mortar investments in village halls and community centres across England.

Caroline James, BIG Lottery Fund Head of the Yorkshire and Humberside Region, said: “The Community Buildings programme funds buildings that are a focus for neighbourhood activity and house a range of services that meet communities’ needs. A refurbished community centre will be a fantastic asset to the people of Escrick and Deighton, particularly for fostering greater social interaction and participation in local life. We’re delighted to be supporting this project.”

David Belbin, Chairman, Escrick and Deighton Village Hall Committee, said: “We’re delighted and overwhelmed to have been awarded a grant from the Big Lottery Fund. Older residents of the community will remember “the Hut” which originally stood on the site of the present village hall and they will now see the proposed extension and refurbishment provide some much-needed new facilities. At last we will have a village hall that everybody will be able to use!”

The existing building will be given a new lease of life to feature an additional meeting room and much-needed storage space. A modern kitchen will also be installed, as will new toilets, heating systems and improved disabled access.

When the five-month construction is complete, the building will provide services for all local residents. Youngsters will be well catered for with a playgroup, children’s dance class and Young Farmers Club all meeting within the hall. Locals can also aim for the jack at a bowls club, create their own masterpieces at art classes and get active in health and fitness sessions.

Further Information:
Big Lottery Fund Press Office: 020 7211 1888
Out of hours contact: 07867 500 572
Public Enquiries Line: 08454 102030
Textphone: 0845 6021 659

Reprinted from the BIG Lottery Fund website: www.biglotteryfund.org.uk