From Michaila Hill, Exeter 382535, December 04,2008

Kelly residents are celebrating after receiving £5,000 from Devon County Council for new kitchen facilities for their village hall from funds allocated from the sale of Exeter Airport.

The new kitchen is fitted with new cupboards, worktops, floors, walls, sinks and two ovens and a new fuse box and wiring is installed.

Local County Councillor Christine Marsh said: "I'm thrilled the village hall has been awarded this much needed funding. Having a new kitchen will make the world of difference to all the users of the centre."

Raymond Brewer, Chair of Kelly Village Hall said: "We are absolutely delighted with the grant. We have now completely refurbished the kitchen and it is being used."

The village hall is used by residents not only from Kelly but also Chillaton, Bradstone and the surrounding area. It holds events throughout the year including a lunch club, annual dinners, children's parties and fetes.

The £5,000 was allocated by Councillor Christine Marsh from her local projects fund.

Notes to editors

Councillor Christine Marsh can be contacted on 01837 52350

Exeter Airport money

The Council sold Exeter airport for £60 million, and after first paying £12 million to cover existing borrowing against their previous investment in the airport, the Council had £48 million available for local projects. The money available was divided in funds - all targeting areas of improvement.

These are:

A Local Projects Fund supports smaller projects which can make a significant different to towns and villages in Devon. This enhances the support that Devon County Councillors already give to projects in their local areas through the County Committee fund, which allows them £10,000 each year for one-off grants for community activities. The Local Projects Fund will allow them to bid for up to £25,000 for a project, together with the facility to club together for larger projects.

A Green Fund promotes carbon reduction and environmental projects.

A Community Fund is for projects that develop provision for young people, older people, community centres and library enhancements.

An Economic Development Fund is for projects that develop Devon's economy.

A Schools Estate Development Fund promotes schools projects which are unable to be developed as part of the named Capital Programme.

A Major Projects/Programmes Fund promotes projects of very significant importance to Devon, which meet several of the Council's strategic priorities.