A HAMPSHIRE community is to benefit from new facilities thanks to a major cash injection.

Worshippers and community groups at St James’ Church in West End are to enjoy a brand new kitchen recently installed in the church hall.

The new facility includes two ovens, two gas hobs, a dishwasher, fridge and freezer, warming cupboard, microwave and water heater for tea and coffee and it has been possible thanks to a grant of £36,388.57.

The money was granted by Biffa Award, a multi-million pound fund that aims to help to build communities and transform lives through awarding grants to communities and environmental projects across the country.

The new kitchen will now be used by church members and the several groups that use the venue such as Stay and Play, the Lunch Club, Brownie and Scouts.

Thomas Wharton, Vicar of St James’ Church, said: “We are delighted with the new kitchen.

“It means that we can continue to provide a space not only for St James’ events, but just as importantly for the wider community of West End.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Biffa Award for their generosity in helping to fund this project.”

St James’ Church dates back to 1890 and the hall was added in 1983 so it was decided that replacement of the hall kitchen was a top priority for the church.

The grant from Biffa Award also covered the cost of removal of the old kitchen, an upgrade of utilities, decoration and the installation of the new kitchen units along with new flooring, wiring and plumbing.

Gillian French, head of grants for Biffa Award, said: “At Biffa Award, we aim to fund projects that build communities and transform lives.

“This popular community facility was in need of a new kitchen, and we’re proud that with Landfill Communities funding, Biffa Award has been able to support the church’s ambitions.”

The community groups that use the venue also welcomed the news.

Penny Beeby, leader of Stay and Play, said: “The ladies here are going to be so happy to be getting a new kitchen.

“It’s going to make life so much better, so much easier for prepping and storing."