MORE than 150 people attended an open day as a campaign to save a threatened village hall gathered pace.

Organisers said they were overwhelmed with the response to the event, at Holden Hall in Oakworth.

Now campaigners have begun moves to form a trust to run the building, which is situated alongside the main road through the village.

The hall is among seven district-wide which cash-strapped Bradford Council wants community groups to take on, warning that otherwise premises will shut.

Scout leader Robert Payne, part of the Holden Hall campaign team, said: "The turnout at Saturday's open day was absolutely fantastic and it shows just how much the building means to people.

"Visitors were able to see what kind of provision is on offer at the moment and suggestions for possible uses – for example, wedding receptions and other events.

"We also had questionnaires available asking people about their usage of the hall and what they would like. Eighty-one people completed those and we're still sorting through the results.

"We're so encouraged by the support and feedback. I spent the whole day talking with numerous people who don't want to see the place close.

"One lady said she had used the building for years but now saw it in a new light.

"Our three local town council members and two of the district ward councillors were also present and we appreciate their support."

A meeting of the prospective trustees was taking place this week and Bradford Council has been notified of the group's intentions.

Mr Payne said he was very positive about the hall's future.

"It is clear nobody wants the building to close," he added.

"The hall caters for several thriving groups covering every age group – from babies to senior citizens – and they would have nowhere else to go.

"We feel we could do a lot for the village with Holden Hall, as a real focal point of the community.

"And we have a vision for developing the building."

The team is also looking at expanding the programme of community events.

"Haworth puts on all sorts of special weekends and activities but we seem to be something of a poor neighbour," said Mr Payne.

"We are keen to develop attractions, not just for villagers but also visitors."

Town councillor Luke Maunsell, who was among those at the open day, said he was delighted with its success.

"I am immensely proud of the community of Oakworth," he added.

"The whole village has come together to save a much-needed resource and I am hopeful that, with the remarkable work done by local people, the trust will be a wonderful asset for the village.

"I look forward to working with the new body, when it is formally set-up. I will help where I can and encourage the town council to do the same."