THE future of a Menston community centre will be outlined at a launch event next week.

Since April 1 Kirklands Community Centre has been run by Kirklands (Menston) Trust who have taken it over from Bradford Council to be run by the community for the community.

Kirklands has been at the heart of the community since being handed over to Bradford Council from private ownership in 1972. Extensive additions were made to the building, providing a hall and library facility. In 2010 a children’s centre was added to the back of the building. The centre is popular with many organisations from the community - some of whom have been running groups for over 45 years in the building.

Centre manager Heather Norreys said it was exciting times for the residents of Menston and the surrounding area. She said: "Kirklands Trust’s mission is to provide a high quality and affordable focal point for village activities which is available and accessible to all residents of Menston Village.

"Our vision is:

• To be the first choice for any village event.

• To support groups which offer benefits to Menston residents

• To encourage activities which appeal to all ages of residents

• To provide clean and pleasant surroundings which are safe and well managed

"On Thursday 26th April we are holding a launch event which is open to all. There will be presentations at 5.15pm, 6.15pm and 7.15pm when we will outline how we see the future of the building. Tours of the building will also take place (including parts which have previously not been open to the public).

"There are many ways in which you can get involved from being a trustee to booking an event in the building. We have already received support with setting up the office, clearing the area around the recycling, tidying flower beds, establishing a website and sourcing grants for improving the efficiency of the building.

"There will be a competition to name the rooms that are available to hire in the building.

Come and find out what, why and how!"