VILLAGERS ran the rule over their revamped community hall at a weekend celebration to mark completion of the work.

The new management committee has worked tirelessly to breathe new life into the formerly fading hall, in Brandon, near Durham, over the past year.

Renovations have been made within the main hall, kitchen, supper room and toilets, and, externally, with a new driveway providing improved access to the Brandon Lane premises.

A ‘showcase’ event was staged on Saturday (September 5), with an open day featuring many of the user groups who make use of the facilities, offering demonstrations in the hope of attracting more local people to become regular attenders.

This was followed by a concert by the award-winning Reg Vardy Brass Band, attended by local dignitaries and members of the wider community, on Sunday (September 6).

Brandon Community Association chairman Chris Leishman said most people seemed impressed by what they saw.

“I’m sure they will have been aware it’s been refurbished and came along to see how it has improved since the last time they saw it.

“We had steady numbers through the day and although we’re still tallying up, it looks like we’ve raised more than £700.

“The ice-cream van made a mint and the bouncy castle was a big draw, with the concert providing the icing on the cake,” he added.

During the weekend the association’s new logo, designed by Leah Nunn from Brandon Primary School, was proudly displayed.

Mr Leishman thanked Brandon and Byshottles Parish Council, local county councillors John Turnbull and Paul Taylor, plus the Mid Durham Area Action Partnership for backing the refurbishment and the weekend celebration.