A Lancaster community centre has opened a full-time cafe bar thanks to a huge response from the public.
Charles Tyrer, chief executive of the Gregson Centre, said that the local community has been instrumental in helping the Moor Lane venue recover from being closed during lockdown when it was "touch and go" whether it would ever reopen.
A recent appeal for help from volunteers to run a cafe bar at the community centre, led to a fantastic response.
Such was the level of support, from today (March 13) the cafe bar is open, seven days a week from 11am to 11pm.
Charles said this means the Gregson is getting back to its best after being shut during the Covid-19 pandemic.
LISTEN to our interview with Charles Tyrer from the Gregson Centre
"It's been quite a journey since lockdown to get the Gregson back up and running," said Charles.
"We're now at the point that we have 40 regular community groups using the spaces.
"The bar has been really really successful and now this next step, opening the cafe bar in the daytime, hopefully will see a return to the Gregson that people loved pre-lockdown.
"It was touch and go with the Gregson. Community spaces up and down the country have struggled and we've seen a lot of closures of buildings like this.
"There are very few places like this that exist in the country. It's a proper community hub.
"Around 70-odd volunteers helped with the refurbishment of the Gregson to get it back up and running. The community has been fantastic."
While the building itself dates back to 1889, this year marks the 40th birthday of the Gregson Community Association, the charity that runs the centre.
The Gregson hosts all kinds of activities including Tai Chi, adult acting classes, salsa dancing, community choirs, live jazz and folk music, a parent and child support group, youth clubs and a 'secret cinema' upstairs showing films; and is keen to welcome more groups to use its spaces.
Please contact the Gregson if you are interested.
Related Story: Volunteers sought to help run Lancaster arts and community centre - Beyond Radio
Long motorway delays after lorry and van involved in crash near Lancaster
Motorist caught driving at double the limit near primary school during Lancaster police operation
Crews tackle fire near Heysham
Co-op store plans revealed for former village pub near Lancaster
Lancaster and Morecambe MPs slam council over free disabled parking survey
LISTEN: "Where are the parents?" Detective inspector speaks out on Lancaster youth crime
UPDATED: Morecambe Bay mum feeling wonderful after reaching final of Ms Great Britain Classic
What's On: Our Halloween and bonfire/fireworks events guide
Family of Lancaster baby who spent her first six months in hospital back kids' play area appeal
LISTEN: Lancaster Music Festival returns with local and international appeal
LISTEN: Morecambe mum completes one million steps challenge for daughter's legacy of kindness
Blue Badge holder free parking in Lancaster City Council car parks could be scrapped
PHOTOS: Inside new Morecambe second-hand bookstore after couple's dream becomes reality
Popular Lancaster café to close after the owners announce retirement
Police issue warning over cold callers in Heysham area
Acceptable Behaviour Contracts issued as police speak to 26 youths after Lancaster ASB spate
Fundraising for £150,000 revamp of Lancaster playground receives grant boost
Community spirit shines as volunteers transform Lancaster community farm
Crews tackle fire at property in Heysham
