A well-known building in Ramsey is to have a facelift, with the support of Manx Lottery Trust.

Baby changing areas and a disabled toilet are to be provided, and existing toilets refurbished, at St Paul’s Hall after a grant was awarded to Maughold and South Ramsey Parish Church Council.

The funding of £16,000 will be used to carry out major plumbing and building works, including the replacement of all sanitary ware and the fitting of a baby changing station and hand driers.

Work at the hall, which is used every day of the week for a variety of social and fundraising activities including art clubs, dancing, brownies and a community drama group, has now begun.

Martin Barrow from the Parochial Church Council said: ’This is wonderful news for everyone who visits or uses St Paul’s Hall.

’The facility has always been enjoyed by a wide cross-section of the community from Ramsey and the north of the island, but it has been in even further demand since the closure of the Methodist Church and hall in the town.

’As well as regular community and church events, many individuals and groups book the hall on a one-off basis for activities such as birthday parties, so I am sure the improved facilities will be welcomed by all, particularly the recently established mums and tots group.’

Sarah Kelly, the chairman of the Manx Lottery Trust, said: ’St Paul’s Hall is a popular hub and the fact it is in use every day of the year highlights its importance to the community.’

The grant was provided courtesy of Manx Lottery Trust’s community awards programme, which give grants between £2,501 and £50,000.