Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt will open Claygate’s new community clubhouse, it has been announced.

Construction work on the facility, located on the village’s recreation ground, began on August 30 last year.

Work continued though the Autumn and, with the building now secure, the first phase is complete.

The fit out, much of which will be achieved through volunteer help, will be carried out throughout the Spring.

Mr Hunt, the MP for South West Surrey, is due to officially open the clubhouse on May 25.

Esher and Walton MP Dominic Raab said: “In a year which will be dominated by the Olympics, it’s vital that we recognise the efforts of a local community in terms of improving sporting facilities at a very different level. 

“We are delighted that the Secretary of State has committed to come and open the new building which will be a fitting tribute and recognition for all those who have supported the project financially and all the volunteers who have worked so hard to bring it to life.”

It is hoped that the new facility will attract a wide range of community groups in addition to its main users – Claygate Cricket Club and Claygate Royals Football Club.

The £330,000 clubhouse will feature increased space for changing, as well as modern indoor toilets and showers.

It will also have enhanced kitchen facilities and a lounge area designed to accommodate club meetings and wider community use.

The building will replace the village’s existing clubhouse, which is more than 60 years old.

Steve Wells is chairman of the Claygate Recreation Ground Trust, the organisation behind the project.

“This is the biggest public building to be built in the village for many years and will be a significant step forward in creating an attractive and important community facility for  use and enjoyment for generations to come,” he said.

“One of the great things about the project has been the reaction and assistance of a whole range of local people.

“From local government we have received grants from Elmbridge Borough Council, Surrey County Council, Claygate Parish Council, as well as support from the Football Foundation and the Veolia Environmental Trust.

“In addition, there has been a variety of other funding support such as commercial sponsorship from local companies and a huge amount raised from events and donations.

“However £60,000 of the total is in the form of loans, so we still have a big target to reach the point when the building is debt free.

“Fundraising will continue therefore for some time.

A quiz night in aid of the new clubhouse is being held At Claygate Village Hall in Church Road from 7.30pm on February 24.

There will be a full bar, auction and raffle. Tickets are £12.50 per person and include dinner.

For more information, call Alun Cope Morgan on 07774 248789 or send an email to aluncm@googlemail.com.