Repairs to the roof of South Douglas Old Friends Association’s Victory Hall have been completed thanks to a grant from the Manx Lottery Trust.

During routine maintenance at the venue in Finch Road, Douglas, rotting timbers were discovered, and were causing the roof to leak. Additionally, during those repairs asbestos tiles were found and the costs spiralled. The project was then delayed to protect birds nesting on the roof.

To help the Association with the vital repairs Manx Lottery Trust gave ?12,000, with the Association raising an additional ?5,500.

Suzanne Lowey, from South Douglas Old Friends Association, said: ‘With the roof project it’s been one thing after another but we are delighted that it’s now complete and we know that our building is once again protected. We’re grateful to Manx Lottery Trust for the generous grant it gave to help us see the project to completion.’

Lulu Gillow, Chair of the Manx Lottery Trust, added: ‘The Association has a great community spirit and holds many special events. Manx Lottery Trust grants are awarded to help the Island community, and we were happy to be able to help the Association with this crucial roof repair project.’

To find out more about the work of the Manx Lottery Trust visit: www.mlt.org.im.