RESIDENTS AND QUARRIERS JOIN FORCES TO REFURBISH VILLAGE HALL

Dozens of Quarrier’s Village residents joined staff from Quarriers last Friday (August 10) for a glamorous event to mark the grand re-opening of Sommerville Weir Hall.

Locals and the charity teamed up earlier this year to get the ball rolling on the refurbishment of the hall. Now, after months of hard work, Sommerville Weir Hall has been transformed into a hub for villagers to enjoy. It is also available to hire for parties and weddings.

Resident Katrina Vine organised the grand re-opening event which featured live orchestral music performed by locals along with canapés donated by Three Sisters Bake, based on the ground floor of the hall.

Katrina said: “The event was a huge success. Everyone involved had a fantastic time celebrating the re-opening of such a fabulous village hall.

“A year ago a survey of local residents showed how keen everyone was to put Sommerville Weir Hall back at the heart of the community. It has taken a lot of hard work – but it has all been worth it.”

Another resident, businessman Jonathan Kennett, who has also been heavily involved in organising the refurbishment of Sommerville Weir Hall, added: “This project is a testimony to what can be achieved when residents join forces with the owners of a building – in this case Quarriers – for the benefit of the local community.

“It is now a stunning local hub for residents to enjoy and local groups will also benefit greatly from the hall.”

Somerville Weir Hall was the first building erected by the founder of Quarriers, William Quarrier. Originally known as Central Building, it was completed on 17 September 1878 and was first used as a school, church and children's home.

Quarriers chief executive Paul Moore said: “The charity is in a unique position of having its headquarters in an historic village which we share with the local community.

“When residents told us they wanted to put Sommerville Weir Hall back at the heart of the community Quarriers was keen to work with them to achieve their goal. The end result is a great reflection of our partnership approach to the refurbishment.”

Anyone wishing to hire the hall for a wedding or party should contact Katrina Vine on 01505 614513 or email katrinavine@aol.com.

Below: Quarriers chief executive Paul Moore with Quarrier’s Village residents Katrina Vine, Jennifer Buchan and Jonathan Kennett.