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There has been a Village Hall on the present Bank Road site since 1925,
when a group of enterprising villagers procured an ex-army hut from
Harrogate Barracks. This was essentially a wooden building, initially
with a coal - fired heating system which existed until 1966 when a new
oil fired boiler was installed. 1966 provided a turning point with the
addition of a bar, fitted out by West Bromwich Brewery; again a lean -
to wooden extension, this continued in service until the late 1990's. In
the early days of Little Witley Jazz, back in the 1980's, the old
building was affectionately known as the "Chicken Shack" by the Jazz
fraternity.
The last ten years has seen major refurbishment and rebuilding, so that
the present hall is a fully brick-built structure incorporating a smart
new lounge bar, new toilet and kitchen facilities, a fully furnished
terrace, a tarmac car park and landscaped surroundings. Many of these
improvements were made possible by grants from the National Lottery,
although fund raising efforts by the village have also contributed
significantly.
The Village Hall is very much the centre of social and cultural life in
Little Witley. As well as being the home venue for village organisations
- the Parish Council, W.I. and Youth Club - many outside bodies such as
Caravan, Cycling, Clay Pigeon Shooting and Pony Clubs take advantage of
the excellent facilities and superb setting, and views which the Hall
enjoys. The Hall Management and Social Committees organise a lively
programme of social events, notable amongst which is the Jazz Club which
celebrated its 20th. Anniversary in 2001. Individuals are very welcome
to hire the Hall at very reasonable rates for private functions.
Little Witley is proud of its Village Hall - long may it continue to
provide the main focus of Village Life.
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