A COMMUNITY centre rebuilt to give young people in the area more activities and facilities has been opened in a village near Selby.

The centre in Monk Fryston was officially opened by Mary Weastall, Chief Executive Officer of Selby District Council, on Monday, February 16.

Monk Fryston and Hillam Community Association's chairman Ray Newton said: "The project evolved from recognizing the need to provide more activities for local children and young people. The catalyst was a series of pop up teenage Facebook parties which caused outrage amongst village residents and galvanized our members into action. “

Ray thanked all the donors and partners and added: "We simply could not have done it without the knowledge and goodwill of willing and helpful partners”.

Ms Weastall congratulated the partners' achievements as she unveiled a celebration mural which featured the logos of the 15 donor organisations, including British Gypsum, Kingspan and Howden’s Joinery .

The building now has double the floor space, new toilets, kitchen and allows several groups to use it at the same time.

Cllr Andy Pound, Chairman of Selby District Council's Western Community Engagement Forum, added: "We have been delighted to help Monk Fryston and Hillam Community Association to addressing the needs of their community and in particular, the needs of children and young people. We know that other communities have similar needs and hope that this project will inspire them.”