Hire Terms & Conditions

SUPERVISION: It is the responsibility of the hirer to make sure that no damage, however slight, is caused to the premises, the fabric and the contents. The hirer is also responsible for the behaviour of all persons using the hall, whatever the capacity. The NO SMOKING rule must be observed at all times.

DAMAGE: The hirer must inform the Hall Committee as soon as possible of any damage or loss that has occurred. Also any failure of hall equipment, and any accidents involving injury to the public. Any repair or replacement cost will be charged to the hirer.

USE OF PREMISES: The use of the hall is solely for the hirer and it must not be sublet to any other person. The Hall must not be used for any unlawful purpose and no alcohol can be sold without a licence.

LICENCES: The hirer shall be responsible for obtaining such licences as may be needed, be it for the sale of, or for the supply of, intoxicating liquor. Two large rubber-backed mats must be used in front and back of any bar, to protect the floor from spillages. Regulations stipulate that the hall can have a maximum of 15 licences per year, regardless of who makes the application. Each individual is limited to 5 applications, unless they have a personal licence. The licence covers the event, so if a 3-day festival is hosted at the hall this requires a single licence. This allows for a maximum of 21 days per year where licences can be used. If a hall hirer also hires a bar, even if the drinks are free to the attendees, a licence will be required. The only time a licence is not required is when an event invites attendees to bring their own alcohol.

PUBLIC SAFETY: The hirer is responsible for compliance with regulations including Fire Safety; Local Authority; Local Magistrates Court or otherwise, particularly in connection with any event that includes public dancing, music or similar public entertainment, or stage plays. Please note there is not a landline available at the hall and not all mobile networks have coverage in the area. Should a fire occur the hirer must telephone the fire brigade and give the postcode of the hall: EX31 4JU. The hirer must do a head count. Maximum numbers = 100 seated or 120 standing in the main hall.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE SAFETY: The hirer must make sure that any electrical appliances brought into the hall are safe and in good working order and have a MAP certificate. There are two separate circuits in the kitchen. To ensure there is no overloading please use both circuits. If the electricity is tripped then a call-out fee will be charged. A list of key-holders is in the kitchen.

COMPLIANCE WITH THE CHILDREN ACT: The hirer must ensure that any activity for children under eight years of age complies with the provisions of The Children Act 1989, and that only fit and proper persons who have had the relevant checks (DBS) have access to the children.

ACCESS: If access is required outside the hire period (for delivery of equipment / cleaning up etc) this must be arranged at the time of booking.

END OF HIRE: The hirer is responsible for leaving the hall in a clean and tidy condition. All rubbish / recycling is to be taken away as we do not have a collection at the hall. All equipment / tables / chairs etc should be replaced from where they were obtained. All windows must be closed, all fire doors must be closed, and all exterior doors locked. All lights, including outside lights, must be turned off. The checklist (located in the kitchen) must be completed prior to departure.

FINALLY: please enjoy yourselves, but please remember that this hall is at the centre of our village and consideration must be given to the residents.

If there are any of the above conditions that you don't understand please contact the bookings secretary.

Our preferred method of payment is by online bank transfer to SHIRWELL VILLAGE HALL Sort code: 30-90-49, Account no: 01293548. If you have to pay by cheque please make this payable to SHIRWELL VILLAGE HALL and send to Mrs Sally Pine, Penny Hill, Shirwell, Barnstaple, Devon, EX31 4LF.