AN appeal to secure the future of a run-down town hall is in need of more support, despite taking a vital step closer to reaching its second-phase target.

The Witham Hall Appeal Committee aims to raise about £5m in order refurbish the community centre, which has stood in Barnard Castle for nearly 150 years.

The grade II-listed building is in desperate need of repairs, but so far the appeal has struggled to gather momentum and fundraisers only just managed to reach their first target of £15,000.

A public consultation exercise to find out whether local residents supported the planned refurbishment drew a positive response.

The scheme involves extending the hall and creating a public library, a cinema, an area for art exhibitions and a local history display area.

The appeal committee is now hoping to reach its second phase target of £45,000 as soon as possible and, although progress has been slow, a number of fundraising events have brought in valuable contributions.

One of these events saw ten gardens in Newgate and Park Terrace, Barnard Castle, opened to the public.

Elizabeth Conran, of the appeal committee, said: "We would like to thank all the garden owners. It was a tremendous success and very enjoyable. It has been a real boost to the appeal. However we are always in need of volunteers and donations."

More details about the appeal are available on the website www.teesdalehalls.co.uk/ barnard.htm, or by calling Witham Hall on (01833) 631107.