CAMPAIGNERS who helped save Druitt Hall from closure celebrated its relaunch in spectacular 1950s style on Saturday. 

The fight to keep the popular community hall in Christchurch began in 2011 after the council’s leader, Cllr Ray Nottage, advocated its closure.

However, after years of wrangling, Christchurch Citizens’ Association was awarded a three-year lease to keep the venue going and after a summer of refurbishment it was again opened to the public yesterday. 

To mark the occasion organisers arranged a 1950s theme in homage to the decade the hall was built, with vintage cars and caravans on display along with children’s games and fancy dress.

Chris Guest, a trustee of the group, said he was delighted with the turnout, which he estimated to be in excess of 150.

“We are very happy,” he added. “It shows there is a demand for the hall.

“We have been working so hard over the last six weeks to get it from its dilapidated state to where it is now.”

Table tennis, Women’s Institute meetings and indoor rugby for children are among the activities already scheduled to be hosted at the refreshed building.

Resident Kevin Pigott heaped praise on those who made the day possible, including the many volunteers who helped with cleaning and decorating.

He said: “It is a relief and important step forward. What happens in the next three years is another matter.

“If they can make it work the council may be inclined to extend the lease further.”