SUPPORTERS of a small village’s thriving community hall hope a new high-level accreditation will help them attract more funding in future.

Hett Village Hall, in Hett, between Durham and Spennymoor, has become the first in the region to gain Hallmark Level Three, recognising how well the centre is run.

Leaders hope the quality mark will help them in applying for grants.

They have planning permission to demolish their current Nissen hut and replace it with a modern structure.

However, the current economic climate means funding is in short supply.

Secretary Brian Ogden said: “We’re chuffed about it (the Hallmark accreditation). It’s quite an accolade and distinction.

“It’s a demonstration to the membership that the place is run properly and to a high standard.”

Having been used in Europe during the Second World War, the Nissen hut was reconstructed in Hett in 1956, the £1,600 cost being met by public subscription at a time when the village had only around 40 houses.

Founded in 1962, the village hall association celebrated its 50th anniversary last year with a special afternoon tea.

All Hett residents automatically become village hall members and the facility is used almost daily, for large events, private parties and regular activities including quiz nights, choir rehearsals and parish council meetings.

Usage increased by nearly two-thirds between 2011 and 2012.

Three years ago, the 50-year-old building, which was meant to last no more than a decade, underwent a £20,000 refurbishment, with new heating, wiring, floors, lights and windows installed.

The volunteer-run association has planning permission to demolish the building and replace it but, on current plans, this would cost around £350,000.

Hallmark Level One accreditation was gained last March, with Level Two following in June.

Level Three was recently reintroduced, with 58 criteria, and Hett was granted the award in March.

For more information on facilities or bookings, visit hettvillagehall.co.uk

Hallmark is run by Action with Communities in Rural England (Acre) and operated across County Durham by the Durham Rural Community Council. For more information, visit durhamrcc.org.uk