TWO village halls and groups associated with them have received an injection of money to make refurbishments and buy equipment.

Edinkillie and Rafford Village Halls and two toddler groups which are located at each of the venues have been able to make upgrades to their facilities thanks to the funding from the Finderne Development Trust (FDT).

The most significant work to date has taken place at Edinkillie Hall where the bathrooms have had a major overhaul and the FDT is in talks with the committee at Rafford Village Hall to see how their needs can be met.

Ian Chorlton, development manager of the FDT said: “In 2019/20 the FDT looked into the construction of a new community hub, however, following the covid pandemic, a further study revealed that the community preference was to move away from a new hub, and focus on improving existing facilities, such as Rafford Village Hall and Edinkillie Village Hall.

“The FDT made contact with the committees at both halls and asked them to create a wish list of how we could best assist them in improving their buildings and services.

“Edinkillie responded and their wish list focussed primarily on supplying and fitting new bathrooms and they also said they needed new chairs and decorating. This work is now well underway.

Ian added: “We are also liaising with the team at Rafford Village Hall to see how we can help them to ensure their needs are also met.”

The FDT has also been able to give financial support to the Rafford Toddler Group and the newly formed Edinkillie Toddlers, Babies and Bumps to buy equipment, and help cover running costs.

Ian said: “All of these projects are exactly what the FDT is here to help with.”

Jane Young, secretary of Edinkillie Hall said: “We are delighted with the new facilities at the hall. A refurbishment was long overdue and the work that has been completed by EMac Joinery has really breathed new life into the hall. The ladies, gents and accessible toilets have all been redone, with the addition of baby changing facilities too which is crucial for the new formed toddler group.”