A THIRSK arts centre will remain closed until August - but will have a fresh new look when it reopens.

Rural Arts has announced that The Courthouse will be shut until August 3, 2020.

Since closing its doors, the Thirsk-based charity’s online initiative #RADISH – Rural Arts’ Daily Inspiration while Staying at Home – has reached over 3,000 people.

It has also reintroduced two of its outreach projects, which usually take place all across North Yorkshire, in virtual formats.

Chief Executive, Max May said: “Coronavirus has had a devastating impact, locally, nationally and internationally, and Rural Arts has been investigating the different ways we can move forward through this challenging period.

“In February, we started work on an exciting £200,000 capital redevelopment of the building.

“Given the impact that Government-mandated closures and social distancing will have on our activity for months to come, after consultation with staff and trustees, we’ve decided the best course of action is to keep the building closed and to forge ahead with our redevelopment.”

The redevelopment work includes a new accessible bathroom, brand new café and shop facilities, state-of-the-art equipment alongside innovative environmental improvements and vital structural repairs.