A THRIVING community hall in Westbury Leigh Holy Saviour Church is celebrating its 20 year anniversary.
Back in 2000, when the church was threatened with closure, the idea was born to turn part of it into a community hall, run as a non-profit charity by and for local people.
Under the guidance of talented local architect Peter Swann (to whom the new church clock is dedicated), and thanks to a Lottery grant, that dream became a reality and the new hall and church was opened by the Bishop of Ramsbury in September 2000.
Since then, the hall has thrived, serving the local community in many ways, hosting fitness and exercise classes, bridge, sewing, painting and art clubs, toddler groups and – prior to the Covid-19 lockdown – a weekly market selling local produce and a monthly bingo session (a great favourite), as well as hosting the local polling station.
The upper meeting room is popular for all sorts of smaller events, such as council training courses and business meetings and the well-equipped kitchen has enabled the venue to host catered events of all types including summer fairs, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and many other celebrations!
A benefice spokesperson said, “Although we are a secular charity, we also appreciate our origins and are proud to have been able to raise and donate funds for the upkeep of All Saints at their time of need.
“The hall’s dedicated volunteer committee work hard to keep this amazing community resource available for all and after a six-month shut down due to the Coronavirus restrictions, it is wonderful to see that the hall will be opening during September.
“Because of the current Covid-19 rules, we may not be able to celebrate our first 20 years of fun and laughter in style just yet, but please come and support us for the next 20 years or better still, join our committee.”
