PLANS to refurbish a community hall have been given a boost by The North Eastern and Cumbrian Co-operative Society.

The company is supporting plans by the Mainsforth and District Community Association to restore the hall in Ferryhill Station.

John Sims, a member of the Co-op's board of directors, visited the hall yesterday to present a plaque to mark the company's support.

The association has had a successful year, attracting just over £65,000 in grants towards upgrading the hall.

Although the Co-op's own financial contribution was relatively small, the association is hoping its backing will help to attract further funding in the future.

Committee member Emma Jones said: "This means a great deal. Theirs was one of the smaller amounts, but it is good for us because having such a large organisation supporting us makes a large difference when we approach other funders."

The latest grant, a £3,000 award from the Single Regeneration Budget 6 fund, was used to buy a fitted kitchen for the hall.

The group hopes to raise £400,000 to revitalise the building, which dates from the First World War. Once the hub of the community, it has fallen into disrepair.

The association hopes to complete the redecoration of the interior of the building and start on renovating the external fascia.

It is also hoped to appoint a project manager, who will help with various projects for the community that are expected to be launched in the near future.