Facilities
Our facilities are ideal for functions, events, childrens’ parties, wakes, training sessions, exhibitions, sports groups, exercise classes and more. We welcome bookings both from the community and businesses. Full Wi Fi facilities are available for hirers.
Main Hall
The Main Hall includes a stage with a ceiling-mounted projection screen and audio system. There is a well equipped servery and kitchen at the opposite end; the servery has a fridge, freezer, toasters, kettles, filter coffee machine and a large capacity water heater for hot drinks. In the adjoining kitchen there is a commercial cooker with six full size rings, double oven and alongside that a generous hot cupboard and a microwave oven. A commercial dishwasher speeds things up when catering for larger numbers.
WiFi is available and the password is posted on the board in the Entrance Hall and also in the Meeting Room. If you think a microphone would help please ask. If you wish to play music please bring all your own equipment. Sophisticated coloured lighting has been added in the Main Hall and on the Stage to enhance social events. Details about the microphone and operation of the lights are to be found under Bookings/Instructions for use.
Separate Ladies and Gentlemen’s cloakrooms are accessed from the Entrance Foyer and there is a separate toilet for the disabled.
The floor area of the Main Hall is 165m2 and adjoining Side Annex is about 35m2.
The useable area of the stage is 15m2.
Official allowed maximum capacity for the Hall is 280 standing and 180 sitting. We have 130 chairs and the Hall is comfortably full with that number.
The Stage
Refurbishments in 2021 greatly improved the stage area so as to benefit both performers and the audience. We cleared rubbish from the back of the stage, gave it all a coat of paint, removed dated old scenery from the glory days of the Byfield Thespians, replaced the screens with simple black curtains, carpeted the floor and added four spot lights. The latter can be adjusted to provide an array of varied covers. If this appeals, study the instructions for use under Booking/Instructions for use.
Side Annex
The Side Annex can be separated from the Main Hall by the sliding doors to make an area suitable for meetings of up to about 25 people. There is a retractable ceiling-mounted projection screen. Beyond that there are retractable doors into a large storage area for chairs and 34 Gopack collapsible tables.
The floor area is 35m2.
Meeting Room
The Meeting Room is accessed separately at the lower level and is ideal for meetings or social events for up to 25 people. It is equipped with tables and chairs, a ceiling-mounted projection screen, microwave, kettle, hot water heater and sink for washing up, together with toilet facilities that are suitable for the disabled. Extensive refurbishment in 2018 added LED lighting, window blinds, new chairs and carpeting. The Parish Council occupy an adjoining room as an office for the Parish Clerk. We thank the Council for their contribution to the cost of refurbishment and for installing the internet connection.
The floor area is approx 40m2.
Heating
We are becoming greener! In 2022 we de-commissioned the inefficient and ineffective night storage heaters in the Main Hall, replacing them with air source heat pumps. So far this has kept users of the Hall warm and sometimes they even complain of being too hot. The change has lowered our electricity consumption by 42% and importantly delivers the warmth precisely when the Hall is in use. Heating in the Meeting Room is provided by two Dimplex heaters on timer switches. There are no additional charges for electricity or heating. Go to Bookings/Instructions for use for operation.
Maximum Capacity
In the combined Main Hall and Side Annex fire regulations permit accommodation for up to 180 persons seated, or 280 standing. In the Meeting Room the figures are 32 and 50. For greater comfort we currently provide seating in the Main Hall for just 130 and in the Meeting Room for 25. Floor space in the Main Hall is approx 165m2 and with approx 35m2 for the Side Annex the combined area is about 200m2 when the separating doors are retracted.
Alcohol
Alcohol can be served at private functions, but if alcohol is to be sold, a licence is required and we must be notified by your ticking the appropriate box on the online application form. The charge is £20. If alcohol is sold via an outside caterer, their own licence is not valid for use in the Hall. The licence is specific to the premises.
Regular Users
Several organisations make regular bookings. The activities of these organisations are described under Regular Users to inform newcomers to the village, and perhaps those who are not so new, – of all that is on offer in their local community. Regular users benefit from a 10% discount to the usual hire charge.