Trustees were turned down by North Norfolk council’s Big Society Fund, but now the lottery has come to the rescue with a £15,000 grant.

“We’ve achieved a lot over the last couple of years, refurbishing and reviving the fortunes of the centre,” said Janet Holdom, chair of the trustees.

“The next priority is to resurface the main hall floor as a crucial part in the centre’s future potential.

“We have over 15,000 visits a year and already bookings are coming in for next year.”

Vice chair Richard Crook said: “The flooring is nearly forty years old and is in bad need of repair. We were disappointed to have the bid to the North Norfolk District Council rejected but are very happy the National Lottery has come to the rescue.

“We have recently added Wi-Fi to the centre and are brightening it up and improving the facilities. We all love the new sign and are planning a large community notice board in the next few weeks. As well as the main hall we now have two good quality meeting rooms to rent.”

The next event organised by the centre is the performance of wartime drama Parachute on April 4.