A COMMUNITY centre's new kitchen has been described as a "godsend" by its manager.

Mayor of Hexham Cllr Derek Kennedy provided £4,700 towards the kitchen at Hexham Community Centre from his Northumberland County Council Members' Small Grant Scheme.

The refurbishment includes new cupboards, an oven and a hob, and a dishwasher.

Clare Mwande, manager at Hexham Community Centre, said the kitchen has been "absolutely crucial" to the survival of its luncheon club.

The luncheon club sends meals on wheels out to 10 people each week and sees up to 24 people come in for dinner.

She said: "The home cooked meals that Stephen Hope serves could not have been cooked in the dilapidated kitchen that was there before.

"The full-sized dishwasher has been a godsend, especially after Covid-19 and having to make sure everything is extra clean."

Clare added: "Hexham Youth Initiative and Playgroup also uses the kitchen regularly, and the reliability and cleanliness of it has been transformative.

"We really appreciate what Derek has done for us and the literal difference he has made to local people's lives."