Boost for community venue

Money allocated to eight Potters Bar councillors has been directed to helping St Mary’s Church in the town.

Councillors Peter Knell (Mayor) and Martin Worster (Furzefield ward), Robert Calcutt and Tugay Sevincli (Oakmere ward), John Donne, Paul Hodgson-Jones and Sarah Hodgson-Jones (Parkfield ward) all clubbed together money from their Ward Improvement Initiative Scheme allocations. The late Cllr Ron Morris (Furzefield ward) had also contributed.

The Hertsmere funding - £3,953 out of a total cost of £5,748 - was coordinated by Cllr Knell and has gone to buy a new sound system for the church and a portable system for the church hall.

Reverend Peter Bevan explained: “This generous support from local councillors is hugely appreciated and a great morale boost. The partnership between St. Mary’s Church, borough and county councils for the good of the communities we serve is a heartening example for all who work in the voluntary sector. Since 2005 St Mary’s congregation has worked tirelessly to raise money to improve the church and hall complex on The Walk as a cultural, social and religious centre. Our facilities are now in tip-top condition. The funding from councillors is the icing on the cake!”

Cllr Knell added: “It was great to be able to contribute so much. The church is used by many people for social and community events and I know this will only enhance the facilities.”

Local people can make a bid for cash from the WIIS scheme to improve the area they live in. Each Hertsmere borough councillor gets £1,000 to support local projects and schemes.

If you would like to have a scheme considered, contact your local councillor or call 020 8207 7558.

The contributions were as follows: Cllr Knell £553; Cllr Donne £500; Cllr Worster £250; Cllr Sarah Hodgson-Jones £500; Cllr Sevencli £700; Cllr Calcutt £250; Cllr Paul Hodgson-Jones £500; the late Cllr Morris £700.