Damerham Village Hall
Chairman’s Report November 2024
This has been the first year with the Village Hall Committee under ‘new’ management and I thank all those that have stepped up to take on those management roles as well as the other committee members who have supported them. I’d also like to thank Mike Jerrard who continues to come to our aid whenever asked. Thanks also go to Toby Sherwood for supplying the Christmas tree last year and thank you in advance for this year’s tree.
We have had a change of caretakers this year with Stuart Eastman stepping down and Paul Jordan kindly taking on the role. I would like to thank both of them for their brilliant work and especially Stuart who continues to be heavily involved in the running of the hall.
There has been a lot of expense this year to ensure that the Hall and grounds are kept in good condition with the main expense being the repairs and painting to the exterior and the ongoing issues with the heating. The willow trees have also been a concern this year by looking very sorry for themselves but then miraculously coming back to life!
We have tried some new ways to generate income to help cover costs, such as table top sales and the Harvest Supper, as well as existing fixtures such as Bingo and obviously the Hall lettings. I’m very pleased to say that we have generated more income than last year, so thank you everyone that has used the Hall and everyone that attends the events that have made this possible. Unfortunately, we are still somewhat in deficit!
Knowing that we had a lot of expense this year, we had hoped to hold a Duck Race with a new format. Unfortunately, due to time constraints, a lack of assistance and a very awkward insurance company, we were unable to hold it. However, we are very hopeful that we have got things in hand now and will try our best to hold a Duck Race in 2025. It will be, as it always was, held on the Saturday of the Easter weekend so please save this date and watch this space!
As always, we welcome any help to help us look after your Village Hall. The more help, the easier it all is.
We are striving to make the Village Hall the hub of the village so I’d like to take this opportunity, once again, to thank all the committee members and everyone that has supported the Village Hall. Thank you.
Kind regards,
Sue
Chair