THE founder director of an arts centre has announced he will step down after almost a decade.

Andy Woods played a leading role in opening and establishing the Artrix in Bromsgrove but he will leave his current post at the end of August to take up a freelance career programming and managing venues and festivals across Gloucestershire and the West Midlands.

Chairman of the Artrix's board, Dorothy Wilson, said: "Everyone associated with Artrix has much to appreciate in the leadership Andy has provided in establishing the centre and in making it a venue of choice for many nationally touring artists and companies as well as a place where the arts of the communities of the district continue to flourish.

"We wish Andy all the very best for an equally exciting and rewarding freelance career."

Ms Wilson added: "Since its opening over nine years ago, Artrix has changed the landscape of artistic provision in Bromsgrove and the surrounding areas.

"It is an award-winning arts centre which serves all sections of the community with an eclectic programme of theatre, dance, cinema, live music, comedy and arts skills workshops as well as a highly valued outreach and learning programme."