AT least 70 people celebrated the grand opening of Kingsclere Community Library on Saturday.

They saw former Government minister Sir Timothy Sainsbury, who is a member of the founding family of the supermarket chain, cut a ribbon, giving the library in George Street a new lease of life.

Until a few months ago it was threatened with closure as part of a costcutting measure by Hampshire County Council. However, local residents rallied round to save it by creating a community library run by volunteers.

Currently, there are 42 trained volunteers led by a committee of four volunteer co-ordinators.

These include Sarah Davis who was delighted with the turnout.

“I think Sir Timothy was impressed and encouraged with the numbers,” said Sarah. “He heads up The Headley Trust which will support the library financially for three years.”

The grant for the first year is £2,750, with grants of £2,500 and £2,250 for the subsequent years.

Sarah said prior to the library being handed over to volunteers it was closed for two weeks, and reopened on April 14.

“It was given a lick of paint and a new carpet, paid for by the county council, so it’s looking very smart,” explained Sarah, who added: “The grand opening was a great success as there was an excellent atmosphere, with the volunteers working together along with the support from the local community.”

Hampshire County Council estimates that it will save between £16,000 and £18,000 a year now that the library, which is attached to Kingsclere Village Club, is run by the community group.

Sarah added: “It’s a community building that brings people of all ages together and I think the library is an important local amenity.”