A COMMUNITY hub in Swanage has received a vital boost through £10,000 of funding to modernise the facility.

The Centre on Chapel Lane is owned and run by Swanage & Purbeck Development Trust.

Trustees have been given a grant from Talbot Village Trust to carry out a range of improvements, including an upgrade to the heating system and refurbishing the toilets.

Bob Foster, trustee and chair of Swanage & Purbeck Development Trust, said: “This generous grant has enabled us to update The Centre in such a way that we now operate to a modern standard.

"It was our ambition to make it a vibrant social and caring hub at the heart of our community, and thanks to the funding we feel like we are achieving this goal.

“Currently we operate a wraparound childcare service, youth clubs, sports clubs and have hosted a series of local events including the Dorset Youth Jazz Orchestra concert."

Trustees now hope to be able to run more activities with a learning, culture, health and wellbeing focus.

Russell Lucas-Rowe, trustee of Talbot Village Trust said: “We are so pleased to hear that our grant has helped the trust meet their goal of turning The Centre into something the community can continue to be proud of.

"When we received their application it was clear to see how many people use The Centre and benefit from the services it offers."