RISING damp and the smell of decay are to be tackled at Kingsclere Village Club.

The organisation has been awarded £1,372 by Hampshire County Council towards damp-proofing the entrance hall at the club, in George Street.

The sum will be added to £3,000 from the village club’s own coffers to meet the £4,115 total cost of the project.

It is one of six community associations and village halls across the county which will benefit from grants approved by Hampshire County Council’s executive member for culture and recreation.

At his decision day on January 21, Councillor Keith Chapman awarded grants totalling £19,556 for a variety of projects across Hampshire.

Cllr Chapman, who represents the Calleva and Kingsclere division, said: “Village halls and community associations are a valuable asset in every local area and vital in providing an activity hub that brings together local people of all ages.”