A team of enthusiastic volunteers at Ashwick and Oakhill Village Hall have been rewarded for their efforts, recently achieving a nationally recognised award.

Together they have recently refurbished the hall with new flooring, doors, windows and heating system, plus a complete redecoration.

Plans are now being drawn up to install a Community Cafe by repurposing existing rooms within the hall. A fundraising target has been set of £80,000 with £19,271.83 raised so far. Volunteers are waiting to hear the outcome of several grants that they have applied for in the next few weeks.

Committee members Andy North (Chairman) and Caroline Ambrose (Treasurer) received the Hallmark Accreditation Level 1 Award, a nationally recognised award which evidences the high standard of committee members, the merit of the hall and impact for the community. The team have been advised to go for Levels 2 and 3 together next year.

When presented with their certificate at the presentation a few weeks ago, Andy and Caroline were also given an extra award, the ‘District Award for Mendip 2021’ as a result of the achievements – a complete surprise!

As part of their fundraising, Ashwick and Oakhill Village Hall will be hosting a Christmas Market on 27th November from 11 am until 3 pm. Entry is free and there will be a mix of stalls perfect for all of your Christmas shopping needs. There will also be refreshments, including pulled pork brioche rolls with all the trimmings, delicious cakes, mince pies, tea, coffee, mulled wine and cider! A raffle will also be held.

Readers can find the hall at Zion Hill, Oakhill BA3 5AN.