Interest in an exciting new community hall project in Pembroke is increasing, with a first 'open day' held this week to discuss and view plans on the proposals which would see the old Scout and Guide Hut on The Green replaced.

"Despite the bad weather, the open day went really well, and several local dignitaries turned up to offer their support, and the project has been well received so far," said the new hall's chairman, John Bird.

The project is run solely by volunteers who want to create a new hall that will be used by the whole community of Pembroke North.

The existing Scout and Guide Hut is over 40 years old and has no insulation, is damp, run down and cold. It is not suitable for the current users and, because of its condition, does not attract other users, say those behind the redevelopment.

"This is a prime location on Woodbine Terrace to develop a new community facility, and the area of Pembroke North is in dire need of a community hall and there is nothing serving the immediate area at the moment," explained Mr. Bird.

"Our mission statement is 'To provide a facility available to the community, local youth and organisations of Pembroke North' and we hope that by building a brand new hall and opening it up to groups of all ages and interests, will help serve the community," he continued.

Those behind the plans need to raise funds for the next stage of the project and are selling 'Virtual Floor Space' where each tile can be bought for £2, with any donations welcome.

"A number of local organisations have already said they would like to use the new hall and we hope to see everyone, from members of the local community to Assembly Members, come along and have their say on how this facility can be developed at our next open day tomorrow (Saturday)," said Mr. Bird.

"Five-year-old Osian Wales and his nan brought along more than £50 worth of pennies and silver coins they had collected just to help build 'a nice new hall' to our first open day on Tuesday!" he added.

The next open day will be held tomorrow from 12 noon until 4 pm where anyone is invited to go along and see how the exciting new project is developing.

Anyone interested in helping out with the project or wanting to give a donation to support the development is asked to email [email protected]">[email protected] or contact chairman John Bird on 07974 010199.