THE Victory Hall in Northlew re-opened last Friday, providing villagers the opportunity to see the results of a major refurbishment that has cost in excess of £50,000.

The finance was raised with funding from The Village Hall Grant Scheme, The Community Council of Devon and  Awards for All (Lottery) along with several smaller grants from various charities, together with a vast number of fund raising events in the village.

The work was achieved on time and within the budget principally by B and S Contractors, Julian Wilkins and Shaun Millership together with numerous volunteers.  

The work undertaken included removal of the false ceiling exposing the original 'A' frames, insulation on the walls and roof and the installation of an air source heat pump system.  

Westwood flooring has transformed the old wooden floor which now gleams as if new.  The hall has also benefited from rewiring and new light fittings thanks to Bob Sharp and Ian Dixon has provided the audio side of the refurbishment.

Hall bookings clerk Jayne O'Connell said: 'The hall we had before was of adequate size, but it was not a pleasant space to be in. It was cold, it was damp, it smelt, and just was not nice. This work changes all that.

'It will make a big difference to the community of Northlew, the hall is far more welcoming now.

'We have already had enquiries from several different people about starting up new clubs and groups in the hall. These are things people have wanted to set up for a while, but we they didn't want to use the hall as it was before. Now they do.

'Northlew is a very community spirited place already, but this work will help bring people together.'

Those attending on Friday were very impressed and enjoyed a tea reception in the afternoon and barbecue in the evening. The hall is now a suitable venue for weddings, conferences and all manner of meetings.

There is also a full size badminton court.

The next project the hall management committee is planning includes improvements to the exterior of the hall, redecoration and new soffits and fascia boards.

Bookings for the new hall are made through the bookings clerk, Jayne O'Connell on 01409 221225.