AN arts organisation that works to support performers and artists in Darlington has set up a new service to find venues for groups.

Darlington for Culture (DfC) has set up a section on its website that puts groups and individuals in touch with venues that have space to rent, ahead of the closure of the town’s Arts Centre in July.

Nick Brewster, chairman of DfC, said: “A key role for us in the next few months is to support as many groups as we can and one of the ways we are doing that is helping them find venues.

“Our team has held numerous meetings with people who run venues over recent months and we have already forged some very strong links. From schools to specialised arts venues, each one is keen to support arts in this down during these uncertain times.

“Supporting the arts is one of the ways in which Darlington for Culture can make a positive contribution to the life of this town and we already publicise events, both ours and those organised by other groups, on our website, Facebook pages and Twitter feed.

“Obviously, we are hopeful that the arts centre can be saved in some form and are following the current proposals for its future with interest, but whatever happens we see a long-term role for ourselves in supporting arts in this town.”

To be featured on DfC’s venues section, email your details to darlo4culture@gmail.com For more information visit darlingtonforculture.org, search for Darlington for Culture on Facebook, or follow @darloforculture on Twitter.