For this covered venue must be the only one in the county, if not beyond, where a less than waterproof roof means that rain will stop play.
But villagers are determined that this long-standing meeting place should be replaced and their latest money-making venture will be on Sunday, August 31, when they hold a family fun day.
They have already acquired almost £600,000 through their efforts – including £414,000 from the Big Lottery - and are hopeful of a further £200,000 but still need more to guarantee match-funding and pay for extras.
The fun day is also intended to bring together those who have lived in the village for many years and newcomers and so it has a family theme.
Helping to run the event is Alnwick District Council’s community play officer, Kate Hunter, who is working with Coun Elisabeth Haddow to encourage as many people as possible to join in.
Coun Haddow said: “One of the requirements when obtaining funding is to show community involvement and cohesion. We want to bring the village together and so are hoping that there will be a good turnout of all ages.
“As a former head teacher, I know the importance of play and that is why we are making sure that there are plenty of activities for children. Kate has previously organised play sessions in Shilbottle with parents and children and she is the ideal person to co-ordinate activities for the youngsters at the fun day. It is all for a good cause.
“The welfare hall is no longer fit for us to use. As an example, if the weather is wet, we have to cancel the indoor bowls, because the rain gets in. The wooden building was bought by the miners in 1950 and it seriously needs replacement so that it can be a suitable focal point for village functions and meetings.”
Highlights of the fun day will include a barbecue, five-a-side football, ferret racing, tug of war, a village trail, face painting, an obstacle course, cake stall and children’s play. There will be refreshments at noon with the fun day starting at 1pm.