THE Clinton Hall at Merton is among a list of village halls in the Torridge district to receive a slice of £50,000 to improve their facilities. The hall has been given £2,988 to install a new shower room in the hall's gym. Deputy leader of the council Roger Johnson said: 'Village halls sit at the very heart of our local communities and as such provide a much needed central meeting place. 'Our strategic plan sets out various goals for the council, one of which is to support stronger, safer, and healthier communities. 'It is essential particularly in the more rural parts of Torridge that these halls be maintained to a decent standard in order to continue to provide the communities with a focal point.'