A Monmouthshire village is due for a little bit of designer magic after being announced as one of the worldwide winners of Annie Sloan’s 25 Project.

Raglan in beat global competition to be chosen as one of 25 places around the world deserving of a chic designer revamp of its community space. It is the only place representing Wales in the project.

The Raglan Village Hall Association (RVHA) currently runs the Raglan Old Church School on a day-to-day basis on behalf of Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) and at the moment this is the main community space for the village.

A much-needed Community Hub, which recently won Big Lottery funding, is being planned for the future, but thanks to the Annie Sloan project, Raglan Old Church School will also be smartened up for the benefit of the community. It is hoped that the makeover will attract more local people and services to use the existing building.

Chris Butler-Donnelly, Chair of RVHA said, “Annie Sloan’s reputation as one of the world’s most respected experts in decorative paint is well-known, and we are so overwhelmed and honoured to be chosen as one of 25 places around the world for Project 25.

“Our current community space caters for everyone, from children’s groups to sports and social events, so it needs to be a place that people can really enjoy.

“You don’t often hear community spaces described as ‘stylish’, but I’ve no doubt that the Old School Hall will be brilliantly transformed by the project. We hope that residents, businesses and service providers will enjoy the designer refresh!”

Monmouthshire County Council’s Head of Community-led Delivery Deb Hill-Howells, said, "We are delighted that the Raglan village hall has been selected as the only Welsh community space to receive an Annie Sloan makeover. It is a reflection of the tremendous work that the RVHA group has undertaken on behalf of their community and will ensure that they have a vibrant space while they progress the anticipated community hub development."

The RVHA meets in Raglan Old Church School on the third Wednesday of the month at 7:30pm and meetings are open to all.

If you would like to help the RVHA with its work or just know more about what the RVHA does you can contact Chris Butler-Donnelly on 07931887744.