A much-loved clubhouse in Bedfont could finally be returned to its former glory as work to repair fire damage starts today.

Residents have already waited over 14 months for builders to arrive at the community-run building in Kilross Road.

Council workers have put up scaffolding inside the building and according to a council spokeswoman they will have fully repaired the roof and internal walls by Christmas.

Jan Stephens is club secretary of the Stoney Wall Community Association clubhouse which was badly damaged by a fire in June last year.

She said: "I'm so pleased they've finally started work. We'll have a lot to do getting the place ready when they've finished but I know everyone will help with painting and decorating."

If everything goes to plan the clubhouse will be available for parties, receptions and clubs by the end of January 2009.