Arts centre hits fundraising target for classes

New Brewery Arts can fund 1,200 free classes

An arts centre has hit its fundraising target to allow it to offer free classes to the public.

New Brewery Arts in Cirencester wanted to raise £12,000 by 1 July to provide 1,200 free classes to people in need of support.

The New Brewery Hearts scheme has been designed give people a chance to take part in creative lessons.

Courses on offer include pottery, painting, drawing and stone carving. Venue CEO Beth Alden said she is "delighted" to have hit the target.

The centre will offer free classes to the local community

"What that now means is we can give out 1,200 hours of time in our studios," Ms Alden told BBC Radio Gloucestershire.

"Compared to last year we could only give out 300 - it's a massive change for us."

The centre is now working with a number of local charities in the town to help refer people to the arts classes.

"Sometimes a couple of classes a week can be really meaningful and can have an amazing impact," Ms Alden added.

People are advised to contact the centre if they want to take part in the project.