A SOCIAL housing scheme founded 80 years ago to benefit Grayshott residents is celebrating its first new build for 24 years.

Grayshott and District Housing Association, which manages 30 houses and flats for tenants with a family or a working connection to the village, is building a two-bed detached house with a garden to add to its portfolio.

Work to build the new house in Beech Hanger Road started last month and it should be finished by spring 2017.

Trustee Cheryl Jackson said: “This will bring the portfolio of properties held by the association in Grayshott to 31, a treasured and, to some, surprising asset for such a small village.

“Properties rarely become available, but when they do we contact all the relevant applicants on our register and advertise on local noticeboards and on the village web site.”

The association welcomes applications from those in need who are connected or committed to the village of Grayshott.

Cheryl adde: “These flats and houses have been amassed since 1935 through donations and bequests and the association is run by a small group of volunteers using expert help as and when it is needed. After 11 years at the helm, Clive Purkiss stepped down as chairman in April but has remained on the committee and Jan Gale is now chairman, following many years of service on the parish council.”

For more details, e-mail Jo Clay at [email protected].