MEMBERS of the community are answering the call to help save a much loved community building.

In July this year, it was announced that Kingdon House Tavistock needed urgent attention to save the building for future use.

Kingdon House needs at least £100,000 to weatherproof the Grade 2 listed building and a number of people have offered to help raise the necessary funds.

Bringing together a vast range of creative skills and experience, a new steering group is now in place to plan and organise fundraising events to raise the money needed.

The first stage to save the building includes making the building watertight at a cost of £130,000, of which £30,000 has been promised by Tavistock Town Heritage Initiative if the remaining £100,000 is raised by May 2018.

Peter Jones, chair of trustees, said: ‘We have such a lot to do if we are to meet our tight funding deadlines to save this community centre, but with all the creative energy that is being freely unleashed, it’s looking very possible.’

Kingdon House was designed and built in the ‘arts and crafts’ architectural style as part of the Duke of Bedford’s historic town planning initiative — the reason Tavistock achieved World Heritage Site status.

‘We are delighted by the support that has been offered,’ added Mr Jones. ‘So many people have approached us with their stories of time spent here and confirmed our belief in the importance of this building in our community.

‘Those that have come forward with key skills to help us secure Kingdon House’s future are a great example of this community in action.’

Scott Russell who organises portrait art workshops said: ‘I am ever grateful that this unique centre is available to all. Having rooms available that are designed to make use of natural daylight for an art group is amazing. So much happens here seven days a week.’ Mr Russell also runs a film club and has volunteered his time to help raise the profile of the financial needs to secure the building.

Kingdon House Community Centre’s new steering group are working hard to raise awareness of the financial needs through social media, printed material and events.

Plans are already in place for open days, band nights and other music and arts events to raise the much needed funds to ensure the buildings future. Local professionals and businesses are also donating time and skills to help to raise the profile and ensure the future of Kingdon House.

For further information contact Karen Woodward on 01822 615259 or [email protected]

An open day is being held on Saturday, October 21 at Kingdon House for people to experience a taster session of some of the many activities held in the building, including SJS Dance Academy, yoga, All Out Young People’s drama, Tavistock Musical Theatre Company and Reach Community Drama and Drumming.

There will also be a drop in printing workshop in the morning followed by a clay based workshop in the afternoon. To finish off the day the classic film Singing in the Rain will be shown in the studio.