Launch of an Appeal
The Village Memorial Hall has unfortunately been out of action for the past year or so due to the discovery of a major structural fault in the roof. A professional survey by consulting engineers was conducted in early autumn and acting on their advice substantial scaffolding was installed both inside the main hall and externally at the gable end. This has stabilised the structure and prevented any further deterioration.
In addition to the survey an outline programme for the roof repair was also produced. This will involve the removal of an estimated 1,000+ tiles, restoration of the gable wall together with probable replacement of the fascia, soffits and guttering. Once these (and many other) tasks have been completed the exposed structure will be reinforced prior to the replacement of as many salvaged tiles as possible.
Unfortunately the repair of this important village facility is a major task and the process will be very costly. In order to help finance the project the trustees have agreed to the formation of a fund raising committee. The first such activity will involve a “Friends of the Memorial Hall” appeal, with the names of sponsors recorded for future generations in a Sponsors Register. Numerous other appeals will need to be devised and volunteers are urgently needed to help with this and all aspects of the reconstruction.
Once again practical support from within the village is being offered. Already three organisations have offered to provide at their own expense:- the manpower required for stripping and replacing the roof, the provision of air-conditioning for the Blue Room and the loan of perimeter security fencing. These timely and generous approaches are much appreciated and any other offers of practical help will be most welcome. Further details and the names of these sponsoring organisations will follow in due course as this substantial project unfolds.
Anyone with fund raising experience and a little time to spare would be particularly welcome. All offers of help or for further details please call Bill on 02392 592478.
