THE 19th-century Blackwell Community Hall has celebrated its first anniversary after it was given a new lease of life by around 40 villagers last year.
The villagers took part in a weekend makeover of the iconic building, transforming it into a community hub that hosts around a dozen regular classes for all ages.
There have also been renovations worth over £20,000, which have been paid for by substantial grants and include a new heating and hot water system, a tarmac drive, renovated drains and a refurbished toilet.
Activities include toddler mornings, gentle exercise classes, a walking group and table tennis, while theatre and craft groups has just started for teenage girls.
Hall committee chair Terry Pauley said: “The building hadn’t really been used for the community in such a long time, and now we see parties there most weekends and people coming to regular classes.”
“It’s nice to see the hall back in use and we’re very pleased that the community is reconnecting with the building.”
The building on Green Hill dates back to 1893 and was originally a schoolroom.
It was gifted to the Methodist Church in 1920 but residents were welcome to take over the hall for community and faith events.
