Harlaxton's sports and social club building has undergone a total refurbishment, thanks to a grant from South Kesteven District Council's Community Fund.

The clubhouse, built to commemorate the Queen's Silver Jubilee in 1977, has undergone a major improvement programme following a grant of £8,837 - part of an £11,000 overhaul.

Cllr Hannah Westropp, SKDC Cabinet Member for Communications and whose ward includes Harlaxton, congratulated committee members for their work in transforming the building.

"It's very rewarding to see how our community fund grants are making such a difference right across the district," she said.

"It means that we can deliver real benefits at grass roots level.

"Buildings like this are important for keeping local communities together and the improvements here mean the club house can play a really vital role not just for this village and its sports teams but for others who want to use it."

Volunteers have stripped out old flooring, redecorated and installed new carpets, curtains and furniture, explained fund-raising committee member Rachel Southwood.

"The community grant has been brilliant," she said.

"There is no way we could have afforded to do the work without it.

"The refurbishment has opened up the clubhouse as a venue for meetings, new activities, a drop-in venue, and somewhere for small and local businesses to use.

"It's going to bring the whole community together and our bookings are up already."

The latest round of community fund approvals included grants for projects in Tallington, Ropsley, Fulbeck, Edenham, Grantham's Wyndham Park and Grantham and District Bowls Club.

South Kesteven Community Fund provides grants of up to £10,000 for community initiatives and up to £5,000 for community events.

The fund is handled by the Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Service.