FOLLOWING three years of planning, fundraising and construction the vision of a centre for the community in Cwmffrwdoer was finally realised when the hall opened its door.

Welsh international rugby union player Taulupe Faletau officially opened The Ebenezer Centre on July 12 when he cut the ribbon to the hall that has undergone a £370,000 transformation.

This was followed by a ceremony by members of Ebenezer Chapel and a concert with performances from the Garndiffaith Gleemen, pianist Gareth Kibble, and soloists, Karen Middle and Shirley Leigh, in front of 110 invited guests.

Simon Walkling, Moderator of the United Reformed Church, National Synod of Wales, congratulated the Minister the Rev Samantha Caton, the chapel elders, members and the Community who had committed themselves to the project.

In a talk, 'How did we get here?' project co-ordinator and member of the Ebenezer Hall Initiative, John Cox reminded everyone of the original commitment that was made 107 years ago when the foundation stone for the original building was laid.

He said: “This faith and commitment has been carried to the present time when in October 2011 Ebenezer Chapel passed a resolution to go ahead with the access road, car park and refurbishment of the Sunday School Hall for use by the community.”

The hall, which was built in 1907, had to close in December 2011 due to a dangerous unadopted access road leading to the building.

The hall’s committee, supported by The United Reformed Church, raised around £70,000 by holding community events.

Then came cash help of £298,663 from the Welsh Government’s Community Facilities and Activities Programme.

The access road and car park have been resurfaced, while the hall has been refurbished internally and externally.

Double-glazing, heating, new toilets, kitchen and patio area were also installed, while outside a community allotment was created.

Mr Cox explained that the hall will accommodate a range of community activities and interest has already been shown.

For further information about the hall contact either John Cox on JohnMCox@talktalk.net or Alan Saunders on asaunders@yahoo.co.uk