Two treasured community hubs in the borough are being saved by a government fund.

The Ramsbottom Co-op Hall Heritage Trust and Whitefield Bowling Club were successful in bidding for a share of the Community Ownership Fund, a funding pot rescuing community places that form part of the heart of a community.

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Ramsbottom Co-op Hall Heritage Trust will receive £296,000 from the fund.

The Co-op Hall will be purchased and transformed into a multi-purpose hub, offering workspaces and a performance venue to local and touring grassroot arts groups.

Founder member Stephen Marley said: "We are absolutely delighted with the news.

"Being awarded the money from the Community Ownership Fund is very exciting and we look forward to the future, where we will continue to work hard, to bring the Co-op Hall back into community use for the people of Ramsbottom and the surrounding areas."

Whitefield Bowling Club will receive £259,046 from the fund.

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The money will used to rebuild the bowling club so it can continue to host the club and serve as a hub and meeting space for community groups, including an over 60s social club, a mum and baby yoga group, a horticultural society, and other local sporting clubs.

The site will also act as a collection centre and will provide free allotment spaces to the community.

Conservative Bury North James Daly MP said: “I am delighted that the Conservative government has awarded Ramsbottom Co-op Hall £296,000 of funding through the fantastic Community Ownership Fund, securing the long-term future of this vital asset in our community.

“Having been inside this incredible historic building it is a really important link to the history of Ramsbottom and the surrounding area.

"Not only that but with the central location and vast potential, the restoration of this building could have a transformational impact on Ramsbottom.

“I would like to thank Stephen, Matt and everyone involved with this brilliant project.”

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Secretary of State for Levelling Up Michael Gove added: “Investing in communities improves lives – whether that’s rebuilding a community centre, rescuing historic pubs and theatres or upgrading sports facilities used by families every day.

“These are unique and cherished places, valued by local people of all ages, and we know how much they mean to communities.

“The Community Ownership Fund is about restoring pride in the places people call home and I’m delighted to be funding these projects.”