VILLAGERS have celebrated the opening of a new room at Holme Parish Hall as part of a four phase development plan.

The charity has built a new store for the village’s thriving playgroup following months of fund-raising.

Pat Fell, chairman of of the hall, said the ceremony was an opportunity to show local people that the hall was ‘going forward’ and improving.

More than 200 people, including individuals and societies, use the hall weekly.

Two-year-old playgroup member Alfie Cantley officially opened the new build with a special key on a red ribbon.

“The kids thought it was fantastic and one of the playgroup mums had even made us a celebration cake,” said Ms Fell.

The single-storey extension to be used by the playgroup will be followed by a new kitchen, extension of the entrance hall and the rebuilding of the stage.

Renovation to the 1930s building is a result of funding from Cumbria County Council, South Lakeland District Council, the Hadfield Trust, Frieda Scott Trust and Cumbria Community Foundation.