The village of Kirkby Fleetham, between Northallerton and Bedale, has a long history, dating back to Saxon times.
So when in the Spring of 2022, a local history group’s open day at the village hall led to the idea of building a history room, the community soon got behind it.
Fundraising, grant applications, project management and practical support by a group of village hall trustees harnessed widespread community support and enthusiasm.
The history and resources room is now complete, and the village is preparing for an official opening and community celebration with the main funder, Tarmac, other grant funders and the community.
The official opening will take place on Saturday, July 27 at 3pm, with the honours carried out by former village hall chairperson and treasurer, Jean Morley, who came up with the original idea and worked tirelessly to raise funds for the extension.
The room will be used to display local historical artifacts, and support research and study by residents and visitors, adding a new dimension to a popular community building where a wide range of activities take place each week.
The main funding of £25,000 was provided by the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund, with the full project cost being £45,944.
A plaque in recognition of the donation from Tarmac is in place, and will be unveiled by Paul Younger, operations manager at Tarmac’s Killerby Quarry, at the event on July 27.
“We’re really proud to have been able to support this important project and look forward to celebrating the opening on July 27," said Mr Younger. "I’m sure the local community will enjoy finding out about the village’s local history, in the new history and resources room.”
Local fundraising activities raised £9,044 towards the cost, while private donations totalled £2,900. There was also a donation of £3,000 from the Lightsource BP Solar Farm, £3,000 from William Webster Charitable Trust, £2,000 from Jack Brunton Charitable Trust and £1,000 from a North Yorkshire Council locality grant.
The new extension builds on a legacy of fundraising and improvement, including the well-used kitchen and library which support the twice weekly community hub where hot drinks and food are served.
Mike Dillon, chairman of the village hall committee, said: “The village hall underpins so many community activities and we are so grateful to everyone who has contributed over the years. So much work goes on behind the scenes.”
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