AN ORGANISATION has reopened to the public after a month-long closure for essential maintenance and renovations.

Allendale Forge Studios, ran entirely by volunteers, reopened on Tuesday, March 1 after large renovations were completed, including replacing the flooring throughout the building in all public areas.

The studios first opened 10 years ago, during which time they have undertaken renovation work, but decided they could no longer hold off larger renovation jobs, such as installing new flooring and redecorating throughout.

Clare Edwin, a Board Director, said: "It would have been impossible to tackle this with people in the building, so we took the decision to close for the whole of February, and schedule in other essential work at the same time."

"It's been a huge team effort. We're delighted with the result - the building is light and bright, and shows off the fabulous work of our artists and makers beautifully and has been totally worth the hard work."

"To celebrate our reopening, we have a special weekend of events planned for Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13. There will be free art and craft sessions for local children, demonstrations and taster workshops by our artists and makers, and a community litter pick," she added.