School nets £60,000 to renovate hall (From Gazette & Herald)

School nets £60,000 to renovate hall

PUPILS and teachers at the popular village school at Luttons are celebrating after landing £60,000 to renovate an old community hall to convert into a gymnasium and mini theatre.

The brick and concrete block hall stands in the grounds of the Wolds primary school and the trustees recently gave it to the school, said head teacher Tracey Gilbank.

"It was a very kind gesture but because of its condition we needed money to restore it and make it suitable for school use."

This week, North Yorkshire County Council's education authority agreed to fund the work. "We are absolutely delighted - it's a very exciting venture for the school," said Mrs Gilbank.

The hall had not been used for a considerable time, but Luttons itself is going to benefit from the renovated hall because it will be available for use by the villagers, she added.

Until now, the school dining hall has had to double as a gym which, because of its buttresses, has not been satisfactory, said Mrs Gilbank. When the hall is restored later this year, the 32 pupils at Luttons will have a valuable additional asset where a wide range of activities will be held, including drama productions.

Updated: 10:19 Wednesday, March 12, 2003