Mark Garnier, Wyre Forest's MP, visited Wribbenhall Parish Rooms last weekend to see the progress being made on the refurbishment of this important local asset.
Built in 1915, the rooms are halfway through an extensive restoration to ensure that the community has the use of this resource for many years to come.
The rooms, which have seen nearly £50,000 spent on them already, are used regularly by around 20 local groups from both Wribbenhall and Bewdley. But in addition to the regular users, they are available for rent for one off events.
Money raised so far has come from grant funding and from locally raised funds. All of this has been coordinated by the dedicated volunteers who have made this transformation happen. Led by Anthony Trick and the project manager Keith Young, the team are not resting on their success so far. Having already made extensive restoration, including new lighting, heating, insulation and decoration, the team seek a further £40,000 to finish the work. This will include new windows, further insulation, restoration of the floor, a new kitchen and a new patio area for outside events.
Mark Garnier said: "I never fail to be amazed at the achievements of volunteer groups across the whole of Wyre Forest. This is an incredible success of the volunteers who have identified a community asset and taken it upon themselves to restore it to its original glory. In achieving this, they have been supported by a number of people and organisations, including Bewdley Town Council, Bewdley Civic Society, Bewdley Round Table, and local councillor Gordon Yarranton.
"In just two years time, this building will be marking its centenary, yet it will be in perfect condition and fit for use in the 21st century."