FUNDS for a new arts centre in Pershore have been given £100,000 by the town council.

The money will go towards a £1.2m revamp of Number 8, which aims, among other things, to create extensive theatre facilities, a cinema and a gallery.

It is hoped the donation will encourage other groups, including the Lottery, to give generously to the cause.

"We had always promised Number 8 the 'pump priming' money in an effort to get others to follow suit," said the mayor, Richard Hampton.

"We think it's a very worthy cause and we were more than happy to help out."

The first stage of the building work is scheduled to begin on the town centre building on Monday, July 28.

"We're delighted by the help of the town council," said Number 8 chairman Jane Daniels.