A GROUP of artists hopes an online community can bridge the funding gap for a new gallery in the Tamar Valley.

The Bridge Gallery collective is trying to 'crowdfund' the project by offering rewards for donations pledged on an art funding website.

The dozen artists and crafts people have also plunged their own money into the venture, which they hope to open on April 1.

But they need the online funding to make up a shortfall.

The 12 all live within the Tamar Valley and work across a range of disciplines, including sculpture, painting, woodturning, ceramics, photography, jewellery, glassware and textiles.

They plan to exhibit their work at a building in a rural setting between Harrowbarrow, Metherell and St Dominick.

The co-operative members also want to run classes to pass on their skills.

One of the 12, ceramic artist Terry Davis, said: 'This is not just a gallery to sell our and other artists' work. It is a very quiet spot but we see this as a community hub.

'We are receiving a lot of local support. We want to hold classes and workshops and get the community to engage with art.'

The rural site has previously been successfully run as a privately owned gallery, the Tayt Mordern.

The co-operative needs funding to take on fixtures and fittings and for other start-up costs.

To be funded through wedidthis projects have to set a funding goal and a deadline. So far, Bridge Gallery is about halfway to its £1,250 target to be reached by March 9.

The potential donors have been attracted by rewards ranging from unique artwork to personal tuition.

The pledges made on the website will only be taken up if the goal is achieved on time.