THE official opening of Norton Hive Library and Community Hub took place on Saturday.

Ryedale District councillor Elizabeth Shields, who chairs the Norton Community Library Group, said the official opening was the culmination of a great deal of determination, goodwill and hard work.

“I hope that everyone approves of the alterations and indeed the refurbishment of the building,” she said.

“We wanted to brighten up the library area and so a new carpet and more colourful walls were necessary.

“We employed a local architect and all local firms for carpet and painting and are very grateful for their respective contributions."

Cllr Shields added: “We also involved the children of Norton Primary School, and I would like to thank the headteacher, who allowed time for some of the pupils to paint individual canvasses.

“The widening of the doors for access to wheelchair users and an extra toilet, a much larger kitchen for what we plan to become the basis for a café, and finally, the transformation of the garage into two separate offices have all been completed.

“Incidentally, we already have a tenant for one of the offices, who will move in next month, and are looking now to let the other one.”

Cllr Shields also unveiled a plaque noting the opening of Norton Hive and was presented with a bouquet of flowers. Entertainment during the opening included a performance of Alice In Wonderland, music from the White Rose Jazz Band and readings by author Elizabeth Hobbes. There was also a display of local history photos from the Woodham Stone Collection, tombola, book stall and craft sale.

Anyone who is interested in renting one of the office spaces at Norton Hive should phone Mike Gwilliam, vice-chairman of the trustees, on 07866 418469 or 01653 690630.