The new chairman of a thriving Bristol community centre is hoping to improve the building to attract even more local clubs and groups.

Whitchurch Community Centre has been in use for more than 50 years with activities such as dancing, Taekwondo, flower arranging, art, indoor bowls and parties.

There were fears in June that the community centre would be lost after it was announced that Tom and Cicely Whitehead, the chairman and secretary of the management trustees, were stepping down after many years at the helm.

The husband and wife had struggled to find new blood to take their positions, required by the hall for the centre to remain a registered charity.

But the community breathed a sigh of relief when local businessman Tim Thorne, 49, and Sarah Fletcher, 26, were appointed chairman and secretary.

Mr Thorne is now hoping to improve the hall and attract even more groups.

"I am hoping to build on the excellent work of Mr and Mrs Whitehead and make the centre even more attractive," Mr Thorne said.

"We are looking to make the centre more eco-friendly so it uses less power and gas which will help us save money and keep our rates low.

"I'd welcome anyone to come and have a look and get an idea of the excellent facilities at the centre. This is a community centre and as such we would like people of all ages to have the opportunity of getting involved.

"So come on down, get involved. We believe there is something for everybody."

To view the hall, call Pat Dunsford on 01275 540012 or call Mr Thorne on 01275 830082.