THE Clanfield Centre has reopened after the trust running it collapsed during the pandemic.

It was taken over by the volunteering charity Community First, which refreshed the cafe, revamped its website, recruited new staff and took over managing the centre’s activities.

And Clanfield Parish Council, which drove the building of the centre, has opened a new parish office in the three-year-old building off Endal Way.

Community First chief executive Tim Houghton said “We’re very excited – it reopened yesterday (Wednesday) and we are really looking forward to welcoming members of the local community to use and enjoy this important local facility. We know how much it’s been missed over the past year.

“We’ve got an amazing range of classes and activities available to book now, and we hope it will provide great opportunities for residents of all ages and abilities to come together to socialise and enjoy themselves after this past year.

“We would like to thank all those members of the local community who have come forward to volunteer and to those who had their say via our residents’ survey earlier this year. Our friendly team of centre staff look forward to seeing you soon.”

The centre’s facilities include a multi-purpose studio, which can host everything from dance classes to clubs and meetings.

Visitors will also enjoy the sports hall for a wide range of sports and leisure activities, as well as private hire for children’s parties.

Accessible changing and shower facilities are available on site, and fresh and healthy breakfast and lunch options will be available in the new Wellbeing Café.

Parish council chairman John Bannell added: “The council is delighted to see this popular community facility reopening in Clanfield.

“It promises to be of great value and enjoyment for our local residents and visitors to the village.

“We are also keenly anticipating the new council office, and we are looking forward to continuing our work alongside Community First with supporting and developing the centre.”

Until further notice, social distancing and the track-and-trace system will remain in place, and face coverings must be worn in the centre unless exempt.

For more information about the centre visit the website at https://clanfieldcentre.co.uk or email the centre at [email protected] or call 023 9421 1650.