HUTTON Rudby Village Hall supporters are altering development plans, after a second lottery grant setback.

They have raised £112,000 and have numerous plans for additional fundraising. If the new plans succeed, building work on a modified hall will start early next year.

The hall committee originally planned to completely rebuild the premises for £750,000. However, lottery bodies are now concentrating on awarding grants to poorer areas. Grants for affluent communities are drying up.

The committee is now pursuing a more modest scheme. The split-level hall has some structural problems but will be retained and strengthened, and have extensions and modifications.

Spokesman John Autherson said: "We won't be able to go for a completely new village hall. However, we are leaving the main hall as it is while providing permanent structural supports, with space and extra rooms underneath this new shell.

"We are lowering the kitchen area, so we can have a level passage from front to back for disabled people. Lastly, we want to add a room at the back."

The new plan had been demonstrated as structurally feasible and costings were being sought. The final price would be significantly less.

"Over the year, we are intensifying fundraising, looking at other grants, and doing all sorts of things. We'll review things in the autumn to see how much can be completed. We expect the new hall will provide 80-90pc of the function of the original plan."

He again thanked all those involved. "The village has given us continued and impressive support. Raising £115,000 in two years is no bad track-record."

More funds will be raised at the hall tomorrow, from a production of Bizet's Carmen by Opera Nova, with Cleveland Youth Opera, at 7.30. Stuart Buckton is director and Christine Purvis accompanist.

Tickets cost £10 with a glass of wine or soft drink. Details from Richard Hodgson on 01642 780445.