Rishi Sunak has pledged his support to a North Yorkshire village who are trying to refurbish their community hall. 

The Richmond and Northallerton MP has committed to helping villagers in East Cowton in their mission to renovate the facility.

Rishi Sunak commits to helping East Cowton, North Yorkshire:

Mr Sunak visited the village hall to speak to the hall Trustees and villagers about the work that they have done and the work that still has to be undertaken.

The work includes recladding, insulating, and reroofing the building to ensure it remains weatherproof and fit for the future.

The MP viewed the architect’s drawings for the refurbishment, spoke to the Trustees about how it is to be funded and joined the village hall’s regular Friday afternoon gathering for tea and cake.

He offered his ongoing support in assisting with funding sources and grant applications.

Mr Sunak said: “This hall is the heart of the community, providing a space for people to come together, connect, and celebrate. It’s wonderful to see the dedication of the trustees in making sure the hall continues to serve the village for many years to come and I’ll assist them in any way I can.”

Jim Crabbe, Chair of Trustees, said: “I want to thank Mr Sunak for taking the time to visit us and for his support and encouragement.”

Mr Crabbe said he also wanted to thank the entire parish for its commitment to preserving the village hall as a community asset.

“With the building of 60-plus new family homes in the village, the need to secure this valuable community asset has become more acute,” he added.

“Without the hall, our community would be a much quieter, less vibrant and perhaps lonelier place to live.