Hall transformed by grants

CASH windfalls mean that Girlguiding members will be able to harvest the fruits of a five-figure facelift for their hall this autumn.

Work is about to be completed on the transformation of the Girlguiding East Preston and Angmering headquarters in Lashmar Road, East Preston.

Members now have a meeting place of which they can be proud, thanks to the complete upgrading, including an extended kitchen, refurbished toilet, brand new disabled toilet and new flooring throughout.

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The project was made possible by several grants, the largest being £10,000 from Viridor Credits Environmental Company through the Landfill Communities Fund, which paid for major restructuring and plumbing works.

The Big Lottery Fund awarded £7,329 for the installation of external PVC windows and doors and West Sussex County Council’s Community Initiative Fund granted £1,550 to upgrade the disabled access and construct new steps.

More funding came from Arun District Council, with £1,160 to purchase white goods for the kitchen and a height-adjustable worktop, and £250 from East Preston Parish Council for a baby-change unit. Howdens Joinery Ltd donated all the kitchen units.

A spokeswoman said Girlguiding East Preston and Angmering would like to say a huge thank-you to all the funding bodies for their generous donations, as well as to the following companies and individuals for their valuable contribution both in time and expertise to the project: L C Nicholas Ltd, Rustington Windows, the Community Payback Scheme, Builder Centre (Littlehampton), Potts and Ward, Woodcocks Ltd (flooring), Malcolm McKenzie (tiler), John Williams (decorator) and Ferratteria (blacksmith).

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“This hall refurbishment was vital for Girlguiding volunteers to be able to continue to provide a safe, comfortable space where local girls and young women can enjoy the fun activities and opportunities guiding offers,” she added. The hall will also be available for hire by the community – contact Sue Kift on 01903 776222 for more details.