PRESTEIGNE memorial hall has been awarded a grant of £65,371 by the Community Covenant Grant Scheme Board on behalf of the Royal Air Force, The Royal Navy and the Army. The objective of the scheme is to strengthen the ties between the Forces and the Community.

Representatives of the hall committee met with representatives of the funders at the hall to formally accept the grant. Representing the hall were the chairman Frank Davies, the treasurer Judi Charlton and the secretary Lynne Owens. Frank said that that "he was most grateful to The Community Covenant Scheme, and Powys County Council for the funds, and was delighted that this financial investment would not only give great encouragement to the hall committee's efforts in maintaining and improving the available facilities but would also ensure the continuance of what must be a unique connection with our military heroes, particularly coming as it does at the very time we are commemorating the centenary of the First World War".

The grant application was supported by Powys County Council who will also administer the funds. Representing Powys County Council were Councillor Rosemary Harris portfolio holder for regeneration, and Powys Armed Forces Champion, along with Jenni Thomas, the senior officer for regeneration. Local member Garry Banks also supported the application but was unfortunately unable to be present.

Frank Davies also thanked Presteigne Players, who stage the annual Christmas Pantomime, who have also supported this project with financial and practical support that will make improvements to the stage and seating arrangements. They were represented by Paul Clarke and Andy Fleming.

James Tennant-Eyles who volunteered to make the application on behalf of the memorial hall committee and who has offered to oversee the works said that "the new insulated roof, double glazed windows, insulated doors, modernisation of the toilets and the improvements to the stage will considerably reduce the running costs of the building and ensure its ongoing structural viability and attractiveness to a wide range of users for many years to come".