Skelton Toppin Memorial Hall Committee Seeks Additional Funds to Complete Renovation

A committee aiming to transform a village hall into “the best in Cumbria” as part of its centenary celebrations is seeking additional funding. The Skelton Toppin Memorial Hall’s committee stated it had “battled against the odds” to refurbish and future-proof the facility located near Penrith. The project, initially a three-year plan commencing in late 2019, has extended to twice its original duration because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the cost of living crisis. Nevertheless, the committee has reached the halfway point and intends to secure approximately £200,000 to finalize the £500,000 transformation. The 101-year-old structure was conceived and financed by Fred Toppin, who served as vice-president of the International Mercantile Marine Company, based in New York. This company held control over the renowned White Star Line and was the owner of the Titanic. The hall was established to commemorate his father, John Castlehow Toppin, a prominent local farming figure who passed away in 1915. Upon its construction, the hall featured state-of-the-art amenities, including its own power supply and electricity, predating its availability to the rest of the village. The recent renovation efforts have aimed to modernize it once more. The facility is now capable of operating independently from the National Grid, having been equipped with solar panels, enhanced insulation, and an e-car charging point. These additions are intended to establish what the committee envisions as a secure refuge for villagers during emergencies. Robert Towers, chair of the hall’s trustees, stated that their objective was to make it “the best village hall in Cumbria.” Mr. Towers, aged 78, expressed the committee’s hope that their endeavors “would please Mr Toppin, if he were alive.” He further explained that their initial plans were disrupted during Covid, as projected costs escalated from £300,000 to £900,000, concurrently with “grant funds went the other way.” Consequently, they have proceeded with the work in stages and are currently halfway complete, supported by various grants, including one from the National Lottery. Mr. Towers further commented: “It’s not been an easy ride, we’ve battled against the odds and there’s still a lot to do, but it’s hugely important.” He added: “When you stepped inside, it was very uninviting, cold and miserable, but we’ve made it state-of-the-art and attractive again.” Stacey Creighton, chair of Skelton Parish Council, described the group’s achievements as “pioneering.” She stated: “It’s extremely important. If we didn’t have the hall, then we wouldn’t have any community gatherings and we would all be very isolated.”