A COMMUNITY group in Catrine has secured a substantial funding boost to help secure the future of a building that not too long ago was threatened with demolition. 

The Catrine Games Hall group saved the village's games hall from demolition after taking on a lease for the venue which is set to run until 2032.

Catrine's hall was earmarked for demolition at a time when a number of leisure centres were being demolished in East Ayrshire, including the one just along the road in Mauchline.

Since then, the trust has turned the games hall back into a community asset, with birthday parties being held, games halls full of activities, and even serving as a vaccination venue for a period of time.

A community asset transfer of the building from East Ayrshire Council to the Catrine Games Hall SCIO was approved in March 2022.

Now the trust has secured a significant funding boost, from the Awards for All National Lottery Community fund.

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The £20,000 will go towards a new development officer, as well as helping out with running costs. 

A trust spokesperson said: "Catrine Games Hall Trustees are delighted to announce we have been successful in our bid for funding of £20,000 from the Awards for All National Lottery Community fund.

"This funding ensures that we can employ a development officer for the next year to progress a new activity program, a volunteer programme, solar and heat pump installation, to save on energy costs and free up revenue.

"It also means that we can work towards a better more sustainable service to our community.

"We are absolutely delighted. Thank you!"