PEOPLE in Bishops Castle have been set the challenge of raising more than £60,000.

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall recently re-opened following a major conservation and renovation programme.

The majority of funding for the scheme was secured from the Heritage Lottery Fund and other grants such as the Pilgrim Trust and Shropshire Hills Leader programme.

But the project also committed to raising money through its own local fundraising 'Target 250' as part of the overall financial package.

Bishops Castle Town Hall will be celebrating its 250th anniversary in 2015 and Target 250 sets itself the challenge of raising £62,500 towards the project.

Over the last three years donations have been made and a wide variety of fundraising events have been held for the town hall. After a huge community effort the target is now in sight with only the final £5,000 now needing to be raised.

“Throughout my time as project manager I have been hugely impressed with the generosity and creativity of people willing to support the town hall project,” said Sam Hine, the town hall renovation project manager.

“The initial intention was for 250 individuals or groups to commit to raising £250 each to reach the target. However, the reality is that many more people have joined in with Target 250 in all sorts of ways with donations in all shapes and sizes.

“People have kindly given whatever they can and put on events and activities that others can take part in and have fun while raising funds. It really is a fabulous community effort.”

The remaining £5,000 must be raised before next summer to complete the funding package for the town hall renovation scheme.

Bishop’s Castle Town Hall Trust, a new charity, has been set up and is managing the building on a daily basis on behalf of the town council.

The trust is working to ensure the building is open for all to enjoy and has a long term sustainable future for the people of Bishops Castle and visitors to the area.

To find out more contact the town hall on 01588 630023 or visit the website www.bishopscastletownhall.co.uk.