KIDS were let loose with paint at an out-of-school club after its campaign for a new building hit the target for demolition works to start.

The walls, windows and floors of Sedgefield Out of School Fun Club’s existing wooden base were covered in a kaleidoscope of colours as 37 youngsters were treated to a farewell messy session ahead of it being knocked down this week.

The club, which runs in the grounds of Sedgefield Primary School, in Rectory Row, launched a fundraising bid more than two years ago and has now raised an impressive £105,000 - securing enough funds to allow it to press ahead with the project.

Deputy manager Claire Chapman said: “The children absolutely loved getting messy. The shed has been up for a really long time so a new building will make a great deal of difference. It will be lovely and fresh for the children and will have a lovely atmosphere.”

The club was launched in 1995 and offers childcare and fun activities before and after school as well as during holidays. The registered charity set out to raise cash for a new building as repairs to its deteriorating clubhouse were eating into its savings.

With more than £100,000 cash raised so far, the club can fund the construction of its new log cabin-style building, on the same site, which is expected to be completed in October.

However, the club is still appealing for help to raise money to finish off the works - with the cost of the entire project standing at £135,000.

As it stands the club does not have enough funds to install a kitchen but, having made do with only a microwave and kettle, manager Sue Bell has given her reassurance that it would continue to function.

Ms Bell added: “We’re delighted that our new build has begun and would like to thank everyone who has helped with our money-raising efforts so far.

“We would appreciate anyone who can help with this campaign to get in touch.”

The club will remain open for business during the summer break with a calendar of activities running from a temporary base at Sedgefield Primary School.

For more information and to donate call 01740 623565 or email sedgefieldfunclub@tiscali.co.uk