KILDWICK & FARNHILL VILLAGE INSTITUTE (OCTOBER 2007)

Residents of Kildwick and Farnhill are now reaping the benefits of a £8,000 donation made by Skipton Building Society's Charitable Foundation to improve the toilet facilities of the village institute. All users, in particular the elderly and disabled, will be able to take advantage of the upgrades, which include disabled access facilities, and was a key part of a full refurbishment project which has recently been completed. The village institute aims to provide a focal point where the community can gather and participate in a variety of activities as well as providing local residents with education and advice.

Kildwick & Farnhill Village Institute, which is located between Skipton and Keighley, was originally a textile mill and in 1911 was donated to the two villages in memory of Sir John Brigg, a local benefactor who had been MP for Keighley. The institute has played a crucial role within the villages ever since, offering a local venue for the community to meet and take part in social events.

Paul Gittins, trustee, commented, "The donation we received from the Charitable Foundation was vital, as it gave us the initial funding we needed to get the refurbishment programme under way."

Sarah Strickland, trustee at Skipton Building Society Charitable Foundation, added, " We are delighted to have been able to donate to such a worthy cause that will help the local community. Our Charitable Foundation aims to make a real difference to people's lives and any registered charities that are looking for help can pick up an application form from their nearest Skipton branch."