Hamsterley Methodist Chapel’s hall has enjoyed a refurbishment worth more than £10,000.
The venue had major issues, including a sinking floor, electrical problems and damp. The makeover culminated last week when Trades4Care completed the interior decorating.
Heather Richardson, the hall’s chief fundraiser, said: “We have got new heating. We had to do the electrics because when we put the cooker on it kept fusing. When the contractor came out, we were trying to run 80amps on a 50amp cable.
“They were very good. Within two days they put in a new armoured cable and fit it before the decorators came.
“We have a new floor, new heating, electric updates and now they are decorating.”
The floor replacement was made possible thanks to a £5,000 grant from the neighbourhood budget of the village’s county representative Cllr Robert Potts.
He said: “I am really happy to support the project to refurbish the church hall as it is used for several activities and events to benefit the local community.”
The hall is host to a variety of activities including a pancake café, regular coffee mornings, family craft sessions and drop-in advice sessions by Age Concern.
The decorating work gave Bishop Auckland College student Matthew Walker and New Durham College student Joshua Ebdon an opportunity to work alongside professionals Charlie Wright and Cameron Southworth.
Mr Wright said: “They have given up their Easter holidays to help. It is Josh’s first time out with us. He expressed he would like to come out more with us.”
Explaining some of the challenges, he said: “It hadn’t been painted for a while. There were marks on the ceiling and damp.”
Mrs Richardson was impressed with the work.
Of Trades4Care she said: “It is a brilliant scheme, absolutely wonderful. It is covering two things – cost and training.”
Fellow church member Maria Loxley said: “It is amazing, it has made such a difference.”
While the hall has a new lease of life, there are now hopes to have the chapel refurbished and the outside spruced up.
