Newton Aycliffe Workingmen’s Club (The Big Club) are delighted with the grant awarded from Great Aycliffe and Middridge Partnership (GAMP) which has enabled a scheme of refurbishment to the Concert Hall area.

Funding secured through (GAMP) via the Neighbourhood Budget allocations of County Councillors Jim Atkinson and Sarah Iveson, allowed the club to make improvements to various areas of the club.

With the funding and a team of dedicated volunteers, the club have transformed the washrooms, made much needed repairs and re-decorated the concert room. The improvements and transformations have been greatly received by members and users of the club and its facilities.

Alan Nelson, Club Secretary, said: “The grant from GAMP has allowed us to rejuvenate one of the Club’s most important assets. Our concert hall, which accommodates up to 350 people, has been underutilised for many years. Attracting guests was proving difficult due to the antiquated deco and poor condition of the washroom facilities.

The finished project now offers modern decor throughout the hall and washrooms reflecting the standards required.

Weekend entertainment events are seeing a significant increase in attendance. The hall is also now in high demand from many organisations wanting to hold functions throughout the week as well as weekends.

We are starting to realise our vision for the club becoming a Community hub, to be enjoyed by as many different organisations and individuals across Newton Aycliffe as possible”.

The Sheraton Bar – Before & After