Cafe keys handover

PRESS RELEASE

A LONG cherished vision on the part of Hilton Church comes nearer to fulfilment tomorrow afternooon (Friday) with the handover of the the keys to the congregation's new community centre building by Rok Construction. The church aims to provide a cafe, together with other rooms for use within the newly re-developed former manse.

Minister, the Rev Duncan MacPherson said Rok had done an outstanding job under the leadership of site manager Lewis MacDonald, who is also a congregation member. "Rok moved onto the site on 16th June, and has completed the work in less than three months - a magnificent achievement", he revealed.

Leading Highland businessman David Sutherland, who was brought up near the new centre's site, has been a pivotal figure in this re-development, added Mr Macpherson, giving generous financial support together with expert back up through Rok and Tulloch Homes.The project which has cost in excess of £500,000 involved the purchase of a new manse, followed by the re-development of the old building for wider use.

"Some have suggested that the new centre will be in competition with the existing Community Centre. Nothing could be further from the truth," declared Mr Macpherson. "Our aim is to complement the existing services offered by the Community Centre and to provide an additional resource for the Hilton area.

"This week volunteers have been busy painting the interior of the building and next week all the floor coverings will be laid.Within the next few weeks we aim to have a centre manger in place and to have a suitable name for the building."

The formal opening will take place towards the end of the year.