ONCE again the users of Otterham and St Juliot Hall, Marshgate are staging a photographic competition to help raise the funds needed to replace the life-expired hall.

Entry into the competition is free, as will be the exhibition, with funds being raised from the sale of a calendar produced from the exhibition entries, a raffle, cream teas and generous backing by Barclays Bank plc who will match the funds raised up to a total of £750.

Competition organiser Peter Richards said: "The existing hall is an ex-military building which was erected by locals in the 1950s on land given for the purpose. A small extension was added in the 1980s which provides a further small room and a bar area.

"For many years the revenue from hirers has been used to maintain the fabric of the building but its condition has gradually deteriorated. The heating system is inefficient and expensive to run and the kitchen falls short of present day standards."

He added:?"Hence the campaign that was launched to replace the hall and that to date has raised a total of some £55,000 in funds received or promised. Much more is needed, however, before the building can be replaced. This photographic competition is one way in which funds are being raised."

For details regarding the competition requirements see this week's 'Post'.