A NORTH Hampshire MP officially re-opened a community centre in Hook last week following a £1.6million refurbishment.

North East Hampshire MP Ranil Jayawardena cut the ribbon at Hook Community Centre, in Ravenscroft, last Friday, following a project to refurbish the community facility.

Improvements include a brand new facility for the Hook Community Nursery with its own kitchen, toilets and play areas, the Base Youth Centre has its own access, kitchen and toilets and the Squash Club has new courts with a viewing gallery and changing facilities.

In addition, Hook Parish Council has new offices and a councillors’ meeting room next door.

The facility will now be managed by Hook Village Halls Charitable Association (HVHCA).

Speaking to a packed hall of local businesses, residents and people who had been involved in the refurbishment, Mr Jayawardena said: “Having grown up in Hook and seen the village change over the years, I’m pleased that it retains its sense of community today.

“It’s great to see the new facilities provided by this community centre, which is just what the people of Hook wanted. I should like to thank Hook Parish Council and Hook Village Halls Charitable Association (HVHCA) for all their work in making this a reality.”

Chairman of Hook Parish Council, Councillor Iain Chalmers, added: “Hook continues to develop as a community and grow.

“The community centre project represents the end of a long journey, and one to which many people from all parts of the community have contributed, many of whom are here today. The result is a community centre fit for the future of our thriving community, both business and residential.