THE Newtown Community Wing will be officially opened today, after a full refurbishment and rebranding programme.

The venue, which hosts meetings, groups and sporting events, has been renovated thanks to the work of volunteers.

Douglas Robb is set to cut the ribbon, with MP Calum Kerr, MSPs John Lamont and Paul Wheelhouse also celebrating the hard work of those who have helped transform the building.

The group said: “It all began in January 2016 with a reconfiguration to enable all four rooms to have access to the kitchen and toilet facilities without interrupting another user group.

“When that work had been completed by James Swinton & Co Ltd, on time and on budget, the committee decided that it had made the rest of the Wing look neglected.

“A plan was written, costed, local contractors found and volunteers sought for an exceptionally ambitious programme,” she added.

“Colour schemes were chosen, paint bought, ladders lugged, cakes and biscuits eaten, tea and coffee made and drunk by the gallon, donations sought and accepted, and it all went on for nine intense weeks.”

With a very limited budget, volunteers stepped in and took on the roles of painters, handymen and gardeners to bring the place to life.

And after 2,000 hours, the Wing has been transformed inside and out.

The spokesperson added: “Advanced Signs made all the new internal and external signage, Dobbie and Michie supplied and fitted the new flooring, Finlaysons painted the Baillie Hall and kitchen, Cameron and Muir fitted new urinals to the gents toilets and SBC Neighbourhood Services laid a new courtyard, built a new fence around it and painted parking bays. The contractors worked hard to keep the committee happy.

“Everyone is welcome to join us for hot chocolate and nibbles at the Grand Opening on Friday where the small band of exceptionally dedicated volunteers will be on hand to show off all their hard work.

“Here’s to Newtown Community Wing, the heart of the village, finally fit for purpose and future proofed.”

The opening will start at 5.30pm at the Wing in Sprouston Road, Newtown St Boswells.