A POPULAR Pembroke Dock community hall has been given funding to help with much-needed repairs, thanks to Valero.

The St John’s Community Hall aims to provide first-class facilities at a low cost for organisations in Pembroke Dock, and to help disadvantaged groups, where possible.

The hall provides a home for a number of different clubs and activities, including a lunch club for over-60s, two toddler groups, two groups for disadvantaged families, short mat bowls, table tennis, a lace group, yoga, knitting, a craft group and various coffee mornings.

The hall committee approached Valero to help with costs to replace wood which has rotted on certain parts of the building, which was constructed 20 years ago, and received funding of £1,160 from the refinery’s community engagement programme to help with the repairs.

Vanessa Owen, chair of the St John’s Community Hall Committee, said: “We are very appreciative to Valero for their kind support. The hall plays host to a large number of organisations in the town, and the improvements that have been made will benefit many people across the community.”

Stephen Thornton, Valero public affairs manager, said: “Venues like St John’s play a significant part in community life across Pembrokeshire, providing a safe and functional place for a range of activities to take place that would otherwise struggle on their own.

“The wide number of groups that make use of St John’s Community Hall is a testament to its importance for many people in Pembroke Dock, and Valero are delighted to have been able to assist with these repairs.”