A COMMUNITY-OWNED Hive was buzzing with excitement at the weekend as Dollar marked the official takeover of its former civic centre.

Dollar Community Development Trust marked the successful conclusion of a Community Asset Transfer process at the weekend, officially celebrating ownership of The Hive on behalf of residents.

People were at the community centre on Saturday, September 24, to mark the occasion and to hear about the ongoing activities, all while having a bit of fun and enjoying some great food.

Refreshments and a light lunch were prepared by Alexandra Ostroumoff-Croucher and the team at the Lunch Club at Home by the Playpen Café in what was a free community buffet.

There was music and laughter while a new Devon Way Sign, skilfully restored by the Wee County Men's Shed was also unveiled.

It is understood the sign has been a few years in the making with the trust grateful for the work, especially that of Scott Cameron.

The sign showcases the Clackmannanshire Countryside Path Network including the Devon Way but also links to the Hillfoots, Gartmorn Dam, as well as towards Dunfermline.

The trust was also encouraging people visiting on the day to get involved as volunteers in one or more of its various projects around the town.

Indeed, The Hive has a well-stocked community library ran by people who give up their time for free, it runs a baby and toddler group on Mondays and volunteer drivers have proven invaluable for locals who otherwise struggle to make appointments with limited public transport options.

There are, also, hands needed in the centre's community café, the repair café team, sustainable tree planters, the events team who run annual affairs such as the gala, litter picking teams, Hive maintainers and more.

The building came under community ownership last December, the asset transfer having been agreed by councillors the month before, fulfilling a long-standing wish to secure the long-term future of the former civic centre.

It was sold to the trust at a discount price on the basis that it has evidenced community benefit and with support from the Scottish Land Fund.

Those interested in helping out can visit dollarcdt.com or call 07563 405939.