The Government has awarded £1.2m to refurbish village halls in the past year.

Since the launch of the £3m Village Halls Improvement Grant Scheme last April, 21 projects have secured funding for refurbishment work.

Under the scheme, village hall committees can apply for grants of up to £75,000 towards the refurbishment and alteration of their buildings.

The announcement has been made to celebrate the start of Village Halls Week.

Defra rural affairs minister, Lord Gardiner, said: ‘Village halls are an essential part of rural life. I am delighted that our grant scheme is helping to refurbish our nation’s village halls, and each and every one will make a real difference to their communities.

‘There can be no doubt that village halls are more important and relevant than ever. Village Halls Week provides a perfect opportunity for people up and down the country to celebrate these wonderful places at the heart of our rural community.’