Work has started on an ambitious £700,000 restoration of a crumbling landmark in a Moray village.
Contractors have moved in at the historic Fochabers Institute to begin the process of transforming it into a theatre and music venue.
The village is already home to the bustling Speyfest three-day extravaganza of traditional music.
Now the Fochabers Village Association is hoping the hall facelift will ensure the community can attract professional acts throughout the year.
Director, Stewart Harris, said: “The Institute was used for concerts, but as it gradually fell into disrepair and things weren’t getting replaced, they stopped.
“Speyfest is such a big event for Fochabers but it is confined to that very small window of the year. We thought it would be good to extend it.
“Since the bypass opened things have quietened down in Fochabers, now the bank is going to be closing in November.
“Forres and Findhorn have shown that you don’t have to go to Elgin, Inverness and Elgin for events and we want to show that Fochabers is the same.”
Contractors are expected to take six months to complete the extensive refurbishment with a grand opening already being planned for Easter next year.
Repairs are being made to the leaking roof, all the windows are being replaced, a new kitchen is being installed and the toilets are being upgraded.
The performance area is also being revamped with new lights and stage.
Hardworking volunteers have landed cash boosts from funders including Moray Council, the Robertson Trust and the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, to pay for the improvements.
Fundraising is due to continue in the coming months to pay for new carpets and curtains.
The building was saved from closure by the village association, which took it over from the local authority last year.
Chairman, Gordon Christie, said: “It’s very widely used in the community. It’s a major bit of work that’s being done. It shows what is achievable when you get a dedicated team of people going.”
