The history of Somersham Victory Hall
The reason why the hall is called “Victory Hall” is that the people of Somersham decided after the end of World War 2 to start fundraising and to build a village hall as a mark of gratitude to the Allies’ victory.
It took 40 years to complete the scheme!
Housing development schemes, encouragement for small light industries, improved communications and better amenities in the village rejuvenated the fundraising campaign.
Another major contribution was that the fundraising committee owned land in Church Street which was sold in about 1984/5.
The money from this sale made it possible to make an application to obtain grant aid from
Huntingdon District Council.
In March 1985 the Parish Council gave their full support and backing for the project and in September of that year a grant of £15,000 was obtained from the Leisure and Amenities Committee of the local authority.
The Parish Council pledged a substantial sum from existing funds, with the Carnival Committee also pledging financial support of approximately £3,000.
There were more donations from other clubs and individuals in the village.
With grants secured, pledges and donations made plus the fundraising committee’s existing bank balance, it was possible to finance a project costing in total £61,000.
Building commenced in the winter of 1986/87 and it was completed in 1991 and available for letting.
It started as the ‘SOMERSHAM AND DISTRICT DAY CENTRE’ and was opened by Dame Norma Major on 20th September 1991.
Our (then) local MP and Prime Minister Sir John Major officially opened the hall on 17th December 1993.
"With thanks to Alan Draper for his permission to use some of his ‘History of the Hall’
