VILLAGE HALL
HISTORY

The Prettyman Estate gave Levington Village Hall to the village in the late 1920s. It was a timber building that remained much the same until 2005. In World War II, the hall was requisitioned by the army as a medical centre, but it is not confirmed that it was ever used for this purpose. It had a minor upgrade in the 1960s with improvements in the kitchen and toilet areas, and electricity was connected.

It was clear at the start of this century that the hall was not ‘fit for purpose’ after giving many years of enjoyment. The Trustees had resolved to make improvements when funding was kick started by a bequest of over £23,000 from the estate of Miriam Suckling, who wished to further Suffolk rural life. Added to this, sums of £19,000 and £5,000 were gained from the Lottery Fund and ‘Awards for All’. Further funds came from the Parish Council and a variety of village events and exhibitions; £1,200 from the Luncheon Club for a high power electric heater to supply hot water, £900 from Suffolk County Council and £1,300 from OOCL [a local business] for the hearing loop.

Having accumulated approaching £50,000 and following a tendering process, D C Construction Ltd [headed by local resident David Clements] was chosen to do the major alterations and renovations. 3 months later all the work was completed on time and to budget.

The Hall was officially opened on 23 November 2006 by Brian Mills, nephew and Trustee of Miriam Suckling’s estate, whose initial generous bequest achieved so much momentum to our fund raising. He was joined by many residents, who then enjoyed the refreshments and social evening that followed.

We now have a much-improved hall with most of the facilities which were needed, and which will now provide enjoyment for many years to come.