GRANGE Moor residents are hoping their dream community centre will soon become a reality.

Since setting up their Tenants' and Residents' Association this year, members have worked for an accessible facility for everyone to enjoy.

But first they need to raise £2,000 to apply for planning permission for the project.

The entire cost of the centre, to be built on land on Back Lane, is an estimated £350,000.

The land has been provided by Kirklees Neighbourhood Housing.

Committee members are unable to apply for funding until planning is approved. They are organising a Christmas Fair and grand draw to raise funds for the centre.

Committee member Kim Thomas said: "We are hoping for anyone to make contributions or help donate prizes for the fair.

"We want more people to get involved with the project.

"There's one local shop and a post office in the village, and that's it.

"There is nothing at all for the people, nothing for youngsters or the elderly. A community centre is a very much needed resource."

Her partner John Peters said: "We are hoping to build a community centre that caters for everyone, Scouts, Guides, kickboxing lessons - everyone!

"We want to have facilities for the handicapped, a television room and space to hold a coffee morning.

"The centre is about bringing the community back together, and it will be something that is well used.

"I did a census four months ago and everyone was up in arms about the fact that there is no community centre. They want it tomorrow.

"First we need to get planning permission, then the centre could be up in 12 months, but we can't go forward without the permission, and we can't apply for National Lottery funding."

If permission is granted, Mr Peters has a team assembled to work on the project, including surveyors, designers and an electrician.

The architects involved have agreed to waive their fees until the end of the project.

He said: "I very much doubt we will be refused permission. We have had 100% backing from local councillors and the area committee"

The Christmas Fair is on December 9 at St Bartholomew's Church, 11am to 4pm. To donate a prize contact Kim Thomas on 01924 848486.