Tens of thousands have been raised to save a popular North East photography gallery slated to close this month.
Earlier this month, Side Gallery in Newcastle announced they could be permanently closing their doors on Sunday (April 9) due to "critical funding cuts" and the cost-of-living crisis.
The gallery has served as a home to photography and documentary film for nearly 45 years and announced the news on social media on Tuesday (April 4).
Since then, a fundraiser aiming to save the venue on Crowdfunder has raised £37,775.
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Wa'hey!!!! 1000 donors have got us over the half way mark.
— Side Gallery (@SideGallery) April 7, 2023
We cannot thank you enough for standing beside us, donating, sharing, and giving us hope! pic.twitter.com/SRtPbnie99
In a statement on their website explaining their decision, a Side Gallery spokesperson said: "For over 45 years, Side has been a dedicated home to documentary film and photography.
"Side’s mission is to be an agent for change through the commission, exhibition, and preservation of world-class visual stories that highlight social concerns and celebrate diverse lives & landscapes across the Northeast, UK, and the globe.
"Now more than ever, we must protect this vital and freely accessible cultural resource so it can continue to provide an essential public platform for these important stories.
"Our small team are doing everything possible to secure additional funding so that we can eventually re-open to the public. However, our future is uncertain, and we now face the possibility of permanent closure.
"With the support of donors, we can continue working towards re-opening in September 2024 – but we can’t do it without you. You can help us #SAVESIDE!"
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Last chance to see the first UK exhibition of my 6 year work ‘A Wounded Landscape - bearing witness to the Holocaust’ at @SideGallery before it ends.
— Marc Wilson (@MarcwilsonPhoto) April 8, 2023
The gallery itself is also facing closure after its funding was cut so please show them your support. #SaveSide pic.twitter.com/WnpVwq5oHV
At the time of writing, the fundraiser has reached 1,116 supporters since launching.
Many have shown their support for the gallery online and called on others to help preserve the "special" venue and donate to the Save Side campaign.
To support Side Gallery, visit here.
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