A NETWORK of community halls in the Helston and Lizard area is being launched in May.

Twenty-two of the 48 have so far agreed to join the network, which hopes to help communication, share experience and investigate common interest.

Alan Knight, of Praa Sands and District Community Centre, said: "What we are doing is essentially copying an idea that was launched four years ago in east Cornwall. All the public halls got together to talk to each other about any problems they were having.

"It's not something revolutionary but when you think that practically every village hall has the same sort of problems it seems to make sense. A simple idea that will have large benefits for those involved."

Following an initial meeting in December to sound out interest in the idea, a second meeting in February decided to create a steering group to finalise a formal constitution, identify specific areas of interest and to prepare the way for an inaugural annual meeting in May.

So far 22 halls have become directly involved and it is hoped that many more will join in as the network becomes better known.

"We have tried to contact all the halls in the area, but we think that we may have incorrect details for some," said Mr Knight.

"We've been really pleased with the initial response and think we will be able to do great things together."

Areas of interest that have already been identified include: hall insurance, hearing loops, heating systems, hall rental rates, activities supported, education for hall management, funding and fund-raising, relevant legislation and communication with statutory bodies.

The steering group consists of Mick Patterson, from Porthleven Public Hall, Mike Aston, from Cury Village Hall, Mr Knight and Tatia Churchill, the community regeneration officer.

The launch meeting will be held on May 18 at 7.30pm in Porthleven Public Hall.

For further information please contact Mr Knight on 01736 763293 or e-mail alan_knight45@btconnect.com

Information is also available from Tatia Churchill on 01209 614168 or e-mail tatia.churchill@cornwall.gov.uk