A RENOWNED community arts centre has launched a funding campaign in a bid to guard against closure fears.

Bosses, staff and volunteers at The Witham, in Barnard Castle, are asking the community and visitors to support the centre to raise £30,000 in 30 days to help secure its long-term future.

The Investing in the Witham appeal has been launched to ensure there is a secure financial basis that will allow the centre to draw in new people whilst retaining the patronage of the current audience.

The overall target of the appeal is to secure £150,000 before the end of the year, with an initial target of £30,000 to be reached in 30 days starting on August 7.

The Witham was originally set up as a dispensary to help local people who could not afford to pay doctors’ bills and to enable people to access education.

When it opened its doors to the public in April 1846, it was paid for by donations from over 2,000 people.

The most recent refurbishment was completed in 2013 and since then, The Witham has built an increasingly strong reputation, providing a rich and varied programme of quality performances and visual arts, as well as offering activities for all age groups.

However, bosses were disappointed when the centre missed out on a £200,000 grant from the Arts Council last year, which would have made the centre sustainable until at least 2022.

Jill Cole, director of Northern Heartlands and member of The Witham board of trustees said: “The Witham is a vital facility for the small market town of Barnard Castle and its rural hinterland and is likely to be increasingly so.

"We need reasons for people to come together. The Witham attracts people and draws them into town. It’s s crucial for the local economy.”

The appeal will be officially launched along with its Autumn programme, at The Witham, on Tuesday, August 7, from 6pm until 7pm.

To support The Witham campaign, donate at mydonate.bt.com/charities/thewitham

For more information, visit thewitham.org.uk and click on Support Us. Alternatively, call the centre on 01833-631107 or visit it at 3 Horse Market.