A new £1 million community centre in Herne is expected to open next spring after building work finally started.

Leaders behind the scheme gained planning permission in August 2014, but only awarded the contract to a building firm earlier this year.

The centre is expected to open in May or June next year in St Martin’s View.

Parish council vice chairman Carol Davis said: “Work has started and we are very pleased that they have been able to start the heavy groundwork during the school holidays when it is quieter.”

To help raise cash to fit the new centre out, call 01227 742700.