HONEYBOURNE'S new village hall is set for a grand opening by TV presenter and former tennis player Sue Barker.

Organisers have set up the star attraction for an invite-only event for 100 people pivotal to the building of the purpose-built community hub September 4.

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Funding through grants and events has helped build the new hall at a cost of close to £1million, replacing the original hall built in the 1930s which gradually fell into disrepair.

The sale of the site it was on helping to pay for the new facility which is on land given to Honeybourne Parish Council by developers Taylor Wimpey.

"We are thrilled that Sue wants to come," said treasurer Paula Staples.

"She doesn't live that far away and we think someone like her will offer energy, enthusiasm and appeal to everyone across the age groups.

"We finished it about a year ago. The building work was a bit stop-start with getting materials when Covid struck, they had to stop for a while and then when it was built we had restrictions over the opening.

"It has been quite sad because we have such a lovely hall but now we do have activities going on including yoga, pilates, Irish dancing, art groups.

"People have still been a bit reluctant but we decided to plough ahead with open days, then we had to cancel those because of Covid restrictions so we are delighted to go ahead with the formal opening.

"All of those who have provided grant funding or helped with the build, Wychavon councillors, MPs, county councillors and a number of people from the village who played their part will be there and we are thrilled to bits.

"We are going to gather, have a chat and hopefully once Sue has said a few words we can have cup of tea, reflect on the good work and set the hall on its way into the future."

Mrs Staples explained the event would not be open to the public due to ongoing concerns over Covid.

"We decided against it because we don't know what the situation will be," she added.

"By inviting just 100 people, we can manage the situation if we need to. We were planning an open day but that has been cancelled twice, we want the village to come along and have offered tours with our administrator showing people around.

"Everyone in the village is welcome but this event is something more formal for the people who have contributed towards making it happen."