Witney's Corn Exchange building reopened to the public on Friday for the first time in three years.

More than 100 guests got a chance to view the refurbished Victorian Grade-II listed building, which is still in the process of being transformed into a community venue.

Town mayor Jeanette Baker hosted the event, which doubled as her mayoral ball and raised funds for the Coppafeel charity that fights against breast cancer.

Guests were able to see the grand foyer, which has been redecorated to enhance its Victorian features; the main hall, which has a complete new ceiling, lighting and interior decoration; and the upstairs meeting room, which has a balcony overlooking the main hall.

The council is in the process of selling the nearby Langdale Hall to pay for the revamp.

There were a few teething troubles with men having to use the toilets in the nearby Langdale Hall.

Entertainment came from singers and dancers from the West Oxfordshire Academy of Performing Arts and there was a charity raffle and auction.

The event raised more than £3,000 for the Coppafeel charity supported by the mayor.

Mrs Baker gave a heartfelt speech in which she explained her support for the charity was largely due to her grandson's girlfriend suffering from breast cancer.

There had been criticisms from residents over the decision to sell the Langdale Hall and questions over what the Corn Exchange might provide, but many guests on the night said they were delighted with the new facility and it would provide a much needed arts venue and community hub for the town.

A group of 10 trustees has been appointed to take over the private running of the hall from Witney Town Council, which is expected to happen in September.

The trust will then look to install a community cafe at the front of the building and install exhibition and performance facilities.

The Corn Exchange closed three years ago after safety issues were uncovered.

The sale of the Langdale Hall was delayed after Witney Museum put in a bid to buy the building as an asset of community interest, but it is expected to finally be sold over the summer.

Councillors have confirmed that the as yet unnamed developer does not plan to knock it down.