A new village hall costing more than half-a-million pounds is being built - with a little bit of history left behind in a wall. Residents decided on a 0.75 metre long time capsule, with special seals, to go in a wall at the site of the Langar Barnstone new village hall - currently in foundation stage.
If the wall or hall is replaced in years to come, whoever finds the capsule will be given a fascinating insight into the lives of those who lived in Barnstone in 2023. The large capsule now holds a transcript of the original deed, latest Trustee meeting minutes, Signpost magazine, Vale Market Café Menu, an article from the art group, and from the local archers, dancers, Nigel Wood’s history of the hall, a hirer's contract, booking form and the last user group meeting minutes.
The old hall has a fascinating history dating back to the war - when the building served the country in its hour of need. Due to the risk of bombing of a number of cities during World War Two, children were evacuated to safer areas across the country - and Barnstone was one of them.
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Evacuees arrived from Great Yarmouth and Norfolk - and the old village hall became their school. Their teacher, Miss Hillyard, came with them.
As well as attending lessons in the village hall, some of the evacuees were also taught at the school in Langar, although lessons were cancelled on one occasion due to bombs having been dropped on the parish in May, 1941.
A decision was taken to replace the ailing hall, which parish councillor John Crosby revealed was 100 years old and falling down. The new hall will cost £614,000, with extra funds earmarked for contingency and fees, and should be finished this year.
To complete the fitting out of the building, further funds are needed, and a JustGiving page has been set up for people to make donations.
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