Volunteers cut costs by £8,000

A POPULAR village venue has been given a £6,700 makeover.
Originally, the cost of refurbishing the refurbishment at the Olde Barn at Grappenhall Community Centre was put at £15,000 but costs were cut by more than £8,000 through an “all hands on deck” approach to with the project..
Work on the entertainment suite included re-plastering, carpeting, improvements to the decor and cleaned and repaired ceiling tiles.
The new look facility has been enhanced with large black and white photographs of Grappenhall scenes taken by resident Anna Wenlock.
Social secretary Ginny Mair said: “It was looking really tired beforehand. The work has given it a real facelift and it looks much more cosy and welcoming.
“A lot of the work was done by ourselves and then a lot of people gave their services free or at reduced costs.
“It was stressful organising everything, but we had good fun and everyone got on well.”
The group now has a three-year refurbishment plan including refitting the kitchen and renovating the committee rooms.
Ginny said new members are welcome at the club which has a range of regular events including quiz nights, darts team, poker night and a young widows and widowers group.
Future events include a New Year’s Eve party, a Burns Night Supper and Celebration on January 31 and an Abba tribute night on March 14.
Picture shows project manager Pauline McManus and social secretary Ginny Mair toasting the success of the refurbished barn.