STAUNTON and Corse Community Hub was alive with energy on Wednesday, October 1, as residents turned out to celebrate the reopening of its skittle alley with a good-natured ‘Builders vs Volunteers’ competition.

The ribbon-cutting and first throws down the refurbished alley marked a new chapter for the Hub, which has quickly re-established itself as a focal point for the village.

In 2022, Staunton and Corse lost its shop, pub and garden centre, leaving a gap at the heart of community life. Since then, volunteers have worked tirelessly to bring people back together and restore a much-missed sense of belonging.

Support from local firms Harpers and 2 Rivers Housing proved vital to the restoration, with both giving their time and expertise free of charge to get the skittle alley back in action.

Their contribution, alongside the efforts of dozens of volunteers, underlines the strong sense of local pride in seeing the Hub thrive once again as a safe and welcoming space.

The community effort has gone beyond the alley itself. A MasterChef 2016 quarter-finalist has been volunteering her skills in the Hub’s kitchen, helping make events even more welcoming.

At the same time, fundraising is under way with the support of Staunton Parish Council to provide a much-needed defibrillator on site, ensuring the venue is equipped for the future.

Wednesday’s contest captured that spirit of togetherness, with builders and volunteers facing off in a friendly match that drew plenty of laughs and cheers.

The event provided striking visuals of residents enjoying the space, while also showcasing how cooperation between local people and businesses can bring real results for rural communities.

For Staunton and Corse, the reopening of the skittle alley is more than just the return of a game, it stands as a lasting symbol of renewal, resilience and the determination of a rural community.