RESIDENTS of all ages gathered to celebrate the transformation of a dilapidated pavilion into a much-needed community sports facility.

The pavilion at Chilton’s Miners Welfare Recreation Ground was left abandoned for six years until almost £50,000 in funding was secured to bring it back to life.

Now it boasts fitted windows, gas central heating, modern interior, floodlit tennis courts, children’s play area and a pitch and put green.

On Saturday (July 25), a fun day was held to celebrate the revamp, with David Hopper, secretary of Durham Miners’ Association, cutting the ribbon to officially reopen the pavilion.

The Friends of Miners Welfare would like to thank the following groups and individuals for their support: Chilton Town Council, 4 Together Area Action Partnership, Premier Waste, County Durham Community Foundation, Durham Miners Association, Chilton Residents’ Association, Parnaby Cyclones, Mears, livin, Windlestone School, Chilton Mayor Elizabeth Bruce, SE Landscaping, Andrew Dinsley, Durham Probation Service and Jewson’s.

Councillor Christine Potts, who donated some of her neighbourhood budget, said: “It was a fantastic day. I hope the community will now make use of this wonderful sports facility.”

For bookings, contact 01388-720565.