A YEAR-long fund-raising project to raise £1 million is being launched in Pershore at the end of June.

Described by organisers as "Worcestershire's most exciting fund-raising initiative this century," the Pershore Theatre Arts Association Number 8 is to hold a launch party in the civic centre on June 29.

Organised by a high-profile voluntary committee and chaired by retired businessman Andrew Clasen, the project, together with much needed awareness, is aimed at completing the redevelopment of Number 8 into a modern, fully accessible centre for the arts in the heart of the town.

"The arts are a vital element of our culture and so we are inviting over 100 guests, including prospective supporters, businesspeople and town councillors for a glass of wine, canaps, information and presentation evening to learn more about this project and the ways in which they can help," said spokesman Hilary Philpott.

Number 8 is already the home to many artists, craftspeople, writers, dancers, actors, musicians and film-goers, all using specially created temporary arts spaces. The venue is a busy creative and social focus and organisers are looking to provide vastly improved facilities.

Hilary said: "These will include a new art gallery bathed in natural light to present both professional and emerging artists, a 250-seat multi purpose auditorium for use of dance, theatre, film, and conferences, workshop and wardrobe to facilitate a scenery building workshop, bar and caf, artist's studio, green room and meeting room, dance studio and a much needed rehearsal room."

She said in its prominent, easily accessible location, with nearby parking, Number 8 would attract new and current users to the centre and new visitors to Pershore, with enhanced facilities for both young and old in a rural community.

She added; "All this, together with helping to promote and expand tourism to the area and to bring new custom to local businesses."