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Villagers inspect newly revamped Moray landmark

Treasurer, Iain Rennie, left, and chairman, Gordon Christie, right, of the Fochabers Village Association
Treasurer, Iain Rennie, left, and chairman, Gordon Christie, right, of the Fochabers Village Association

Moray villagers have been given their first glimpse of a newly revamped landmark as part of its opening celebrations.

The Fochabers Institute closed to the public for a massive refurbishment project last June.

But, following the completion of the £800,000 scheme, it was transformed into a hive of activity yesterday as inquisitive residents were given a guided tour.

The Fochabers Village Association spearheaded the overhaul and its members were on hand to highlight the upgrades between 2pm and 4pm.

Members heralded the event as the culmination of five years’ worth of hard work.

Group chairman Gordon Christie hopes the century-old building will now assume its place at the heart of the community.

He said: “This was people’s first chance to have a look about since the project got under way, and I was really happy with the response.

“Everyone seemed pretty amazed with the transformation it has undergone.

“It was a real topic of curiosity for a while, they could see the changes to the outside of the building but hadn’t much idea of what was going on inside.”

Among the guests were representatives from community groups who expressed an interest in using some of the venue’s freshly improved rooms.

Mr Christie added: “There were a few inquiries from people looking to use the hall for different bits and pieces.

“There was a dance group, and some were interested in using it for music events.

“We want this to be the main venue in Fochabers.”

The community group was granted control of the building by Moray Council in 2015.