THE newest venue in Great Malvern celebrated its official opening on Friday, following a six-month £25,000 transformation.

Malvern Radio, in Church Street underneath the post office, is a new meeting, events and private hire space.

Mayor Neil Morton, Cllrs Samantha Charles and Beverley Nielsen, and representatives from a range of community groups and businesses attended the opening.

Commenting on the refurbished premises on Church Street, Cllr Charles said: “It’s a superb space for meetings, events, training and cinema nights in the heart of Malvern."

The premises, which were previously the town’s Conservative Club, were empty for some years before local resident Chris Winstanley took them over and invested in the refurbishment.

He said: “After six months of hard work involving lots of local tradespeople, we’re delighted to be able to offer the space to businesses, community groups and individuals for hire."

Malvern Radio has already been used by local businesses and community groups for meetings, and is hosting the Festival of Innovation’s comedy night on Friday, October 11.