£1k Grant from North Star Brings Christmas Cheer to Boosbeck Village
Christmas cheer has been spreading through Boosbeck, North Yorkshire, thanks to a £1,170 grant from North Star Housing, helping the community come together for two much-loved festive events.
The funding was awarded via North Star’s Grant Funding Scheme, delivered by the Community Engagement Team to support local projects that bring people together and strengthen communities. The most recent round ran over the summer, inviting groups to apply for up to £2,500. Decisions are made by a panel of North Star involved customers, who use their local knowledge and lived experience to decide which projects receive funding and how much, ensuring money goes where it’s needed most.
In Boosbeck, the grant helped cover the costs of hosting a Christmas Fair and a festive pantomime at the village hall.
Village halls play a vital role in creating inclusive, welcoming spaces, particularly in rural communities, but rising running and maintenance costs can make it difficult to put on events.
Lindsey Armstrong, one of the hall’s trustees, said:
“Thanks to this support, we were able to bring our community together, strengthen connections, and provide enjoyable entertainment for people and families of all ages. We’ve had some really lovely feedback from those who attended, and we’re incredibly grateful for the difference this funding has made.”
The Christmas Fair, held on Saturday 29 November, was a lively afternoon featuring raffles, refreshments and a range of performances. Entertainment included Redcar crooner George Robinson, Tony the Toe Tapping Violinist, The Elderly Brothers, and even a surprise visit from the Grinch, much to the delight of young visitors.
Feedback shared on Boosbeck Village Hall’s social media showed just how much the event meant to those who attended. One visitor commented:
“Just want to say what a wonderful time we had. We’ve never ever been to the hall despite living in Skelton all my life. My friend recommended today so in we came up and had the BEST time. Looking forward to coming again, your community spirit is amazing.”
Another added:
“Great to see the community coming together. Seeing the kids’ happy little faces was marvellous.”
The festive celebrations will continue on Christmas Eve, when Same Difference Arts perform Jack and the Beanstalk at the village hall. Two pantomime performances are planned and both are fully sold out.
Projects like this show how funding, no matter the amount, can make a big difference, helping local communities connect and celebrate during the festive period and beyond.
