A CHARITABLE trust is hoping it has done enough to persuade council chiefs it should be given the chance to take over the running of one of Richmond's historic buildings.

Richmondshire District Council put the town's former railway station on the market a year ago.

Two commercial bidders were invited to put forward proposals which could see the building converted into either a fitness centre or an entertainment complex, including a cinema.

However, the Friends of Richmond Station have since founded a trust which will pioneer a rival scheme, which has already won significant local support.

About 400 people in the town have already responded to a letter from the group urging them to support the idea of a trust.

Of those, 150 also sent cash to help finance its work, with £1,500 to be invested in initial projects, which committee members have so far funded themselves.

Others have also contributed ideas. Some are similar to proposals which have already been tabled, although the friends' committee has said that a number of fresh suggestions have also been put forward.

Details are being kept under wraps so as not to influence anyone who may still wish to contribute to the debate.

The district council's resources committee will meet on Thursday to study all the bids for the building.

While not over-confident, the friends' committee members are hoping the meeting will accept that they have come up with a sound proposition.

Spokesman Jim Jack said: "What has been proved is that the council's decision to invite a charitable trust to come forward has struck a chord in the community."

He added: "We will need time to ensure the proposals have a sound, non-profit-making financial footing to ensure the reopened station serves our community for years to come.

"We still want to hear from other people."