Appeal for Lympstone hall funds

AN APPEAL has been launched to raise in the region of �20,000 for critical repair work to be undertaken at Lympstone Village Hall. The building, built in the 1930s, is in need of major refurbishment particularly to the roof. Plans are in place to modernis

AN APPEAL has been launched to raise in the region of �20,000 for critical repair work to be undertaken at Lympstone Village Hall.

The building, built in the 1930s, is in need of major refurbishment particularly to the roof. Plans are in place to modernise the premises and transform the building into a venue fit for the 21st century.

Don Mildenhall, chairman of the hall management committee, a group who oversee the day-to-day running of the building, believes the hall in its current state is now showing its age.

The total cost for repairs earmarked as part of the committee's plans are likely to amount to in excess of �90,000 and will be carried out in phases.

Don said: "It now needs modernisation for the 21st century and some significant repairs.

"The phase we are working on at the moment will involve replacing the roofs, upgrades to lighting and some external repairs."

Don explained it would also entail a new floor being fitted and other amenities to benefit all of its users from the village, the school and pre-school.

"We are hoping that we can complete the phase involving the roofs and other repairs and improvements next summer when the school is not in session.

"After that we hope to raise further money to completely replace the old and worn out kitchen."

Don said there were a number of ways people could donate money.

"In conjunction with village organisations like the film society or the amateur dramatic group, we will be holding events specifically to raise funds for the hall.

"We are inviting people to make a donation or volunteer some of their time because we will have some simpler tasks like internal painting."

Don said it was hoped to raise a third of the cost for work to be carried out next year via a grant from the Community Council of Devon.

He said it was planned to gain a separate third from Lympstone Parish Council who have agreed in principle to support the hall committee and the rest from fundraising.

Jill Wilson, coordinator of the fundraising committee, said the hall was a 'focal point' of the village and has been used by everybody at some point.

"Everyone at one time or another has attended something held there. I think people realise that they could lose the hall if we don't modernise it."

The village hall is a charity run by representatives of organisations. On this basis, if you would like to donate money for the repair works, the charity can claim an extra 28p through Gift Aid.

For more information about the appeal, call Jill Wilson on 264753.