ONE in eight people in County Durham use a village hall or community centre every week, according to a survey.
The survey was carried out by the One Voice Network, an umbrella group of community and voluntary organisations in the county.
However, it said that changes which have resulted in the Learning and Skills Council rather than Durham County Council being responsible for funding have led to more stringent conditions being attached to handouts.
Many community buildings are short of income, it said. But whether purpose-built or old and crumbling, they have a vital purpose.
Clive Smithers, director of One Voice Network, said: "Such buildings house the heart of a community which keeps its lifeblood flowing."
For details, or if anyone believes their village hall or community centre was not included in the survey, call (01429) 823067.
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