HAMPSHIRE churchgoers are looking to raise the strong foundation of support needed for a new £625,000 community centre.

Supporters of Hedge End's St John the Evangelist church are set to build their way to success with their Buy a Brick appeal for the planned Underhill Centre.

Since the appeal to develop the centre was launched in 1996, fundraising has raised £260,000 of the target amount needed.

Now, with the first stage of the three-phase development complete, appeal organisers are offering locals the chance to buy in at ground level.

Starting at just £2 a brick, you can sponsor any part of the centre and help get it on its way to completion.

It is hoped that with the foundations already laid, work on the second phase of the project - which will see the shell of the building built - will soon get under way.

Ultimately, the completed centre will not only stand testament to the generosity of locals but will also be a valued community facility.

Appeal secretary Linda Galvin said: "The centre will be a multi-functional community facility and a lot of groups who used the previous hall have said they are looking forward to coming back.

"It will also be of great use to the church community, providing a base for the Sunday school and youth group."

The Rev Cliff Bannister said: "We have always been keen to put the fun into fundraising and we have built up a lot of goodwill over the years. Things are looking very encouraging indeed."

You can buy a brick by contacting Linda Galvin on 01489 788880.

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