Hall the hard work has paid off

WHEN the building firm commissioned to construct a new hall at an Isleham church went bust, the future of the new building looked grim. But members of the congregation at Pound Lane Free Church decided to finish the work themselves, and Saturday (21) wil

WHEN the building firm commissioned to construct a new hall at an Isleham church went bust, the future of the new building looked grim.

But members of the congregation at Pound Lane Free Church decided to finish the work themselves, and Saturday (21) will witness the culmination of their hard work when the new building is officially opened.

Pastor Dave Hall said: "We are very much looking forward to it - it's taken about three years to finish.

"The builders went out of business just before they finished the shell, and so we did everything from there."

He said more than 30 people contributed to the work, while a core group of six people - none of whom are professionals - carried out everything from tiling the roof and painting to carpeting the floor. Mr Hall carried out much of the work himself with wife Sue and son Matthew.

Work has also been undertaken repairing outdoor walls and moving old headstones to create areas the can be used to create areas that can be used for activities.

The new building features a hall, a kitchen, teaching rooms for youngsters and offices, and its official opening coincides with the church's anniversary weekend.

A dedication service will be followed by a buffet and a tour of the new facilities.

"It's been a great effort from the church and it's all been a great experience," Mr Hall said.