Villagers set to open new history hall after huge community effort

The village of Kirkby Fleetham, between Northallerton and Bedale, has a long history dating back to Saxon times.

So, when in spring 2022, an open day organized by a local history group at the village village hall gave rise to the idea of ​​building a history hall, the community quickly embraced the idea. .

Fundraising, grant applications, project management and hands-on support from a group of village hall administrators mobilized community support and enthusiasm.

The History and Resource Room is now complete and the village is preparing for an official opening and community celebration with the main funder, Tarmac, other funders and the community.

The official opening will take place on Saturday July 27 at 3 p.m., with the presentation of honors by the former president and treasurer of the village hall, Jean Morley, who had the original idea and worked tirelessly to raise the funds necessary for the expansion.

The hall will be used to display local historical artefacts and support research and study by residents and visitors, adding a new dimension to a popular community building where a wide range of activities take place each week.

Lead funding of £25,000 was provided by the Tarmac Landfill Communities Fund, with the total project cost being £45,944.

A plaque in recognition of Tarmac’s donation is in place and will be unveiled by Paul Younger, operations manager at Tarmac’s Killerby Quarry, at the July 27 event.

“We are really proud to have been able to support this important project and we look forward to celebrating the opening on July 27,” Mr Younger said. “I am sure the local community will enjoy learning about the local history of the village, in the new History and Resource Room.

Local fundraising activities raised £9,044 towards costs, while private donations totaled £2,900. There was also a donation of £3,000 from Lightsource BP Solar Farm, £3,000 from the William Webster Charitable Trust, £2,000 from the Jack Brunton Charitable Trust and £1,000 from a local North Yorkshire grant Council.

The new extension builds on a legacy of fundraising and improvement, including the well-used kitchen and library which supports the twice-weekly community center where hot drinks and food are served.

Mike Dillon, chairman of the village village hall committee, said: “The village hall supports many community activities and we are very grateful to everyone who has contributed over the years. There is so much work that goes on behind the scenes. »