Villagers in Moreton need lots of interest (From Dorset Echo)

Villagers in Moreton need lots of interest

3:30pm Saturday 2nd March 2013 in News By Samantha Harman

VILLAGERS are hoping for plenty of bids in their auction to raise funds for a new community hall.

Residents of Moreton will put more than 40 prizes, including music lessons, football tickets and travel vouchers under the hammer tomorrow.

All proceeds will go towards the new village hall which has been given a recent boost by Lottery funding.

The project was awarded £3,492 from the Big Lottery Fund in the second of a three-stage bid for more than a quarter of a million pounds.

Village hall committee chairman Catherine Chandler said: “The new hall will cost around £300,000.

“We’ve had the plans on display in the village and everyone seems excited about the project.

“We’ve had many generous prizes donated so we’re hoping to attract a lot of interest.”

The old hall has served the village for a hundred years and is described as a ‘community lifeline’.

But it is hoped a new hall will allow even more people to use the facilities.

Project administrator Tom Roberts said: “By the time we submit our stage three bid to the Big Lottery Fund – hopefully in early June – we have to show good progress in our own local fundraising efforts.

“Hence the auction of promises at the old village hall.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Moreton, and we are looking to the auction to provide fun, food, friendship and funds.

“Items and bids are flowing in.

“We are at a key point when local support comes into its own and are sure it will be a really great evening.”

Building of the new hall is set to commence early this year with completion by autumn 2014.

The auction of promises will take place on March 2 in the village hall.

Doors will open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Entry will cost £4 and will include a hot meal.

For tickets, contact Maeve on 01929 463221 or email moretonvillagehall@talktalk.net