A COMMUNITY centre which fell into disrepair was reopened yesterday following a £400,000 modernisation plan.

Bullion Hall, in Chester-le-Street, closed three years ago after little demand for its use.

The original plaque which marked the opening of the hall, in Bullion Lane, in the 1960s was used again to mark the reopening of the community centre. It was unveiled by North Durham MP Kevan Jones and Councillor Malcolm Pratt, leader of Chester-le-Street District Council.

Mr Jones said: "I am delighted to be opening Bullion Hall, an excellent facility which would not be here had it not been for the hard work and dedication of those involved in the project who had the best interests of the community at heart."

The refurbishment was funded by the Communities Fund, Coalfields Regeneration Trust, Sherburn Trust and One NorthEast.

The regional development officer for the Community Fund, Helen Attewell, said: "We hope the refurbishment of this centre will give a vital boost to the community and voluntary sector in Chester-le-Street and we look forward to receiving more quality applications from groups tackling the needs of the most disadvantaged in the area."