PERSHORE'S Centre for the Arts at Number 8 now has its own arts administrator.

Charlotte Saunders has been brought in to help Pershore Theatre Arts Association realise its dream to bring professional arts to the area through her new role.

"I want to raise the profile of the arts and the benefit of the arts to the community through Number 8," Charlotte said. One major objective is to create more arts activity and holiday workshops at Number 8, catering for two-16 year olds.

It is also hoped that links can be further developed with schools allowing for joint arts activities, from one-off workshops to long-term residencies.

"We are also keen to offer specialist classes for adults, ranging from acting and voice technique for the amateur dramatics sector to art masterclasses for amateur artists," said spokesman Ray Steadman. "Special guest evenings are also being considered."

Mr Steadman said the gallery was a key part of the centre, offering people the opportunity to exhibit work as individuals or as organisations, with work assessed on community importance as well as artistic merit.

The centre has two spaces that can be hired out, an art studio and a dance studio/rehearsal room.

Mr Steadman said: "We would invite people to pop in to PTAA Number 8 at anytime to see what is going on.

"If anyone would like to see a particular activity, please make contact. A suggestion box is to be placed in the foyer and any popular views will be considered."

Anyone with skills to share, art work to exhibit, or a community group needing a venue to meet, can contact Charlotte on 01386 561906 (phone and fax) or e-mail number8charlotte@excite.co.uk.