A GROUP of friends has been formed to help a continuing campaign to highlight a controversial work of public art – and have it declared a listed building.

The formation of the Friends of the Apollo Pavilion comes a year after the structure – built in the Sixties as a focal point for the new town Peterlee, in County Durham – was given a £400,000 makeover.

Among the first supporters of the friends is Tate Gallery director Sir Nicolas Serota.

He wrote: “Victor Pasmore’s Apollo Pavilion at Peterlee was a pioneering work which has stood the test of time.

“Pasmore’s vision for a more humane environment in the post-war world is one with which we an still identify.

“Pasmore saw the pavilion as a focal point in this community and I strongly support the Friends’ Association in realising his ambition.”

The pavilion, also known as the Pasmore Pavilion, was critically acclaimed, but attracted vandalism and anti-social behaviour before its revamp.

Apollo Pavilion Community Association chairman David Taylor- Gooby said: “We have set up the friends so that everyone who loves Victor Pasmore’s creation can play a part in sustaining its wellbeing and ensuring that it remains prominent in the public eye.

“What we are trying to do is revisit his original vision by setting up a fund to have activities around it – and making it a focal point for the community.”

Mr Taylor-Gooby said a range of activities had been held at the pavilion with the support of Durham County Council and more were planned, including a heritage open day on September 11.

Being a friend can cost as little as £3 a year. For further information, visit apollopavilion.info