Horsford Church Room calls for more council funding

Horsford Church Room, owned by Horsford All Saints Church and run by an eight-member committee, was built in 1926 for just £10 and opened on December 1 that year.

The building, understood to have been Horsford's first school, is now home to 15 regular hirers and has helped foster many lasting friendships.

The hub is in the heart of the village (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

Margaret McPhee, vicar of 10 years, is hoping to obtain additional funding to continue upgrading the site.

She said: "We would love to get some more funding from the council.

Diane Baxter, centre manager, left, with Margaret McPhee, rector of Horsford Benefice (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

"The aim is to continue being an affordable community space.

"The site had its driveway refurbished this year and two years ago a new toilet was installed.

"Horsford Parish Council have given us £700 to go towards our next project which is replacing the heating."

Inside Horsford Church Room (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

Jane Arnull, secretary of the committee and manager of the art group, said the hub has a special impact on those who use it.

Ms Arnull said: "Stella, who is 85 and regularly comes to our art group, struck up a friendship with another lady.

From left to right, Nick Arnull, Jane Arnull, Diane Baxter, Margaret McPhee, Frances Dawson and David Brooker (Image: Emily-Rose Thompson)

"She had plans to jump out of a plane on holiday for her 85th birthday and they ended up going on the trip together."

Several clubs including keep fit and line dancing classes, a community coffee morning, a baby group, and a Saturday art group are held at the site in Holt Road.

Diane Baxter, who has managed the site for four years, said: "We welcome all ages, everyone is so friendly here.

"So many friendships have formed at the site."

The centre is wheelchair accessible and has received grants from the Norfolk Community Fund two years in a row to replace all the chairs.