A CULTURE group has urged people to continue to use Darlington Arts Centre while it is still open.

A tea dance and a Queen's Coronation party are among several events at the arts centre which have been cancelled in recent months.

Members of Darlington For Culture (DfC), who organise the events, believe there is a perception that the community arts centre, which is due to close in July, is on downward spiral.

"I have no doubt that people feel that it's going to close, so they think what's the point? , " said Nick Brewster, chairman of DfC. "It's like a sinking ship."

John Dean, also of DfC, added: "Maybe its because the arts centre is closing - itmight be partly the time of year.

"We have done plenty of marketing for the events. We ran events before Christmas and they were popular."

MrDean said the organisation was in a "transition stage", with no one knowing whether it would stay at the arts centre, or would have to find a new venue.

He said: "The arts centre still possibly has a bright future, but in the meantime we have to look for new venues."

Although the centre is expected to close as planned in July, two businessmen - Graham Thrower and Andy Bottomley - may bring the building back to life by turning it into a hotel, restaurant, business units and arts venue.

Earlier thismonth, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet agreed a six-month window for the pair to come up with a business plan and have postponed selling the building.

Mr Brewster said: "I'm guardedly optimistic about the developers' plan, but there is negotiating to do.

"I hope it does work - I think the arts centre is a wonderful building, if nothing else, but it would be even better if it could be preserved as an arts space."

He conceded that it would not be the same as before, adding: "It will not be a community arts centre base."

DfC will host a night of gospelmusic and poetry at the Art's Centre on Tuesday to raise funds for Darlington Women's Refuge.

The LEC Gospel Choir will perform and poetry readings will be given by members of the Darlington-based Inkerman Writers from 8pm.

Tickets are £5, £2.50 for concessions, and are available from the box office on 01325364486 or at the door.