A six-year campaign to redevelop the centre of Bere Alston has moved a step closer.

The Bere Alston Regeneration Partnership (BARP) has raised more than £400,000 through a selection of public and private money to enable them to build a new two-storey community hub onto the 100-year-old parish hall.

Following lengthy negotiations, BARP has now signed a 25-year lease with Bere Ferrers Parish Council, which owns the building, allowing it to take over the running of the hall and for construction work to begin shortly.

When completed, the new look hall will boast a childcare centre, community rooms, IT suite and facilities, kitchen and council offices, on top of the existing hall and stage.

The trustees of the project are awaiting replies to tender requests sent out by architect Steve Whettem to builders, with construction work to be completed by the end of the year.