Over the weekend of 26 and 27 April 2014 a team of local people gave their time and much energy to clear the overgrown areas in front and to the side of The Old School House in Charnock Richard.
Organiser of the event Cllr Paul Leadbetter “I am delighted at the support of those who involved themselves this weekend, the enthusiasm was fantastic. It goes to show that people care about this area and part of the heritage of Charnock Richard village, they want to be involved in generating an area that will enhance the village and will be there for everyone to enjoy.”
The Old School and House is a Grade 2 listed building and the building trustees have been trying, for some time, to raise the money for its renovation as a Community Centre. A fundraising group Friends of Charnock Richard Old School has been established to raise much needed funds to be used towards general upkeep of the buildings, whilst more ambitious schemes for a total renovation are being pursued by the trustees. Cllr Leadbetter is Chair of Friends of Charnock Richard Old School and said “It is essential that these buildings are preserved for the village. It amazes me how many people I talk with have fond memories of going to school here, I have also talked with people who lived in or had relatives who lived in the Old School House.”
Much work remains to be done and the next phase in the project is to create a paved and planted garden area in front of the Old School House and a grassed area to the side, for use as places where people can sit and relax.
Gillian Leadbetter, Manager of Charnock Richard Pre-School, which operates from the Old School during the week, said “I am extremely grateful for people giving their time to clear up this area, as it has become unsuitable for the children to use. I can now see that the Pre-School children will soon be able to enjoy the space and the positive learning experiences it will bring.”