THE signs are good as the new committee in charge of the Western Community Centre in Cheney Manor looks to transform it into something fabulous.

New signage is one for the first changes for the building, which has been open for the past four decades.

Glinn Hambidge was elected chairman earlier this year after it became clear there was no one available to take charge.

The 27-year-old said he made changing the signs on the building his first priority because they didn’t even display the telephone number.

He said: “When I took over as chair I noticed there was a lot to get the centre into the 21st century.”

Most of the changes at the centre have been self-funded. This includes creating a website and booking system that wasn’t in place before, social media pages, and new phone numbers.

“I never realised it was run this poorly when I took over,” he said.

“My aim is to raise awareness of the centre to get more people in our community to come and enjoy this fabulous building.

“This place has had some brilliant times and I want to make sure this continues over the forthcoming years.

“Our community deserve better and we want this place to be highly utilised, so they feel like they have somewhere they can go,” he told the Advertiser.

Since the new team has taken over there has been an increase in users.

Glinn said between 300 and 400 people were going through the doors every week.

Organisations such as Slimming World, Swindon Camera Club, Kentwood Choir, Guys and Dolls show choir and spiritualist groups are all making use of the building in Somerset Road.

The U3A, which offers lectures to older people, is also a regular.

Two weeks ago a childhood cancer awareness day was staged with the support of Rocks of Swindon

With the new sign now in place the committee is turning its attention to the floor of the foyer, which needs replacing because it has to be stuck down with tape in places.

It also has its sights set installing a kitchen at the venue for the first time since it opened 40 years ago.

m,embers have already picked up their paintbrushes to redecorate the main corridor.

Other refurbishment work inside the building is also being carried out to prepare the centre for the next 10 years.

Anyone wanting to book the centre for regular events and family celebrations can call 01793 613783 for details.