Building work under way on health charity's transformation of historic Worksop library and museum

Aurora Wellbeing, a cancer charity operating across Bassetlaw and South Yorkshire, is transforming the Grade II listed building, on Memorial Avenue, where it has been based since 2014.

Backed by Bassetlaw District Council and a £1.8million grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the renovations are scheduled to take up to eight months ahead of a full reopening in September.

Aurora chairman Phillip Foster said: “We are delighted to see the project move forward and it is immensely positive to see building work begin.

"Having a refurbished building from which to deliver Aurora services will be transformational for both the charity and local people, and it is with thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund and lottery players for their role in bringing the project to realisation.”

The charity provides support for anyone affected by cancer diagnosis or a long-term health condition, including their family members and carers.

Services include support groups, workshops and counselling, beauty treatments, holistic therapies and exercise classes, and the building also hosts a popular tea room where people can socialise.

As part of the project, a new dedicated heritage area and innovative virtual museum will be created to tell the story of the building and give people the opportunity to connect with the history of Worksop.

Aurora manager Debra Fores said: “Exploring the links between heritage, health and wellbeing will bring great benefits for the local community.

“Seeing the non-original walls coming down to reveal the true potential of the building is an exciting moment.

To help people follow the progress of the project, Aurora has set up dedicated social media accounts: a Heritage and Health at Aurora page on Facebook, @HeritageAurora on Twitter, and @Heritageataurora on Instagram.

Aurora services are continuing to operate in lockdown. Call 01909 470985 or visit aurorawellbeing.org.uk/worksop for details.

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