A NEW community hall in Dorset which took 'years of work' to plan and fundraise for was officially opened by an MP.

Cam Vale Community Hall, in Longburton, near Sherborne, was unveiled by West Dorset MP Chris Loder.

The public opening of the new hall was said to be 'much anticipated' after a large amount of funding was required for the 'state-of-the-art' facilities in north Dorset. 

Mr Loder said: “After so much work that has gone into this fantastic new hall, it was a pleasure to thank the whole community for their dedication and determination, which has now materialised in what will be a much-loved asset to the community for many years to come.”

Before his election as MP in 2019, Mr Loder was previously a local councillor for the Cam Vale Ward on the former West Dorset District Council 10 years ago.

Speaking at the opening, chairman of Cam Vale Parish Council, Nigel Williams, added: “We feel this is an unparalleled facility for our community - it’s for everyone within the Cam Vale to use and enjoy along with other established clubs and institutions that we already have.

"We believe this space has something for everyone in the Cam Vale.”