A PLAQUE was presented to the trustees of the Smith Memorial Hall in Darnick to mark the completion of phase 2 of its centenary year refurbishment.

The Smith Memorial Hall is stone and timber building with a fine arched ceiling. It has served as a community centre for the last 100 years. Current activities in the hall include judo, bridge, zumba, pilates, pipes and drums, toddlers, community teas and folk music.

The hall was given by Violet Smith of Darnick and is dedicated to the memory of John Smith ‘sometime timber merchant of Melbourne’ and the Australian philanthropist Helen Macpherson Smith who was born in Darnick.

The plaque was presented by Philip Jones, Vice-Chairman of BCCF Environmental who said: “We’re pleased to have been able to direct monies from the UK Landfill Community Fund to the Smith Memorial Hall to allow these important works to be undertaken. It’s vital that all community buildings like this are well maintained for future generations. Residents of Darnick should be proud of the dedication of the trustees whose time is freely given to ensure the hall is kept in good condition.”

Alexander Inglis Vice-Chair of the hall trustees said: “The trustees of the Smith Memorial Hall appreciate the grant given by the Scottish Borders Council from the Landfill Community Fund through BCCF Environmental towards refurbishment of the hall. It’s a lovely hall that was kindly given 100 years ago to the community and now serves Darnick and surrounds well.

“The improvement in the hall’s thermal insulation will be beneficial to the environment as well as to the many users of the hall.”