A FORMER bank that has been transformed into a community resource centre has opened.

Hudson House, in Reeth, was used by Barclays Bank but has been given a lease of life at a cost of £500,000 and six months of work.

The building, on the edge of the village green, contains three flats, a computer suite with Internet access for public use, a community office for Richmondshire District Council and a base for the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and the police.

The Upper Swaledale and Arkengarthdale Business Association, Business Link, the Swaledale Festival organisers and the Citizens Advice Bureau will also use the building.

Hudson House was converted using funds from the regional development agency Yorkshire Forward, the European Regional Development Fund, the Countryside Agency, Richmondshire District Council and the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

The owner of the building, Hudson House Limited, was also helped by Barclays Bank, which sold the building at a favourable price.

The first-floor flats, which are managed and operated by Harewood Housing Association, provide affordable housing in the village and are already occupied.

Phase two of the conversion - to develop a community orchard in the grounds - has started, and is expected to be completed by the end of the summer.

People are also being consulted on the third phase of the project, which involves possible uses for a garage in the grounds.

The chairman of Hudson House, Richard Good, said: "The conversion of the building and all the hard work that has taken place is only the beginning.

"Hudson House is here to serve the community and we are very pleased to be able to bring so many important services and organisations to the local community."

A formal opening ceremony for the building will be held later in the year.