A LEADING Hereford arts hub which once received more than a quarter of a million pounds in council funding each year is appealing for donations after learning the money will be axed.

The Courtyard has launched Mind the Gap! in response to Herefordshire Council pulling the plug on its arts funding which once stood at £326,000 per annum.

That figure was reduced to £130,000 last year but will vanish completely in April when the funding is withdrawn.

Courtyard bosses hope to raise £35,000 through donations from the public by that time.

The venue, which opened in 1998, used the money towards running costs enabling the venue to open 360 days a year, as well as helping its community work.

"The Courtyard is one of the most vibrant and outreaching arts centres in England, using the arts to add to the quality of life of the people of Herefordshire," said Ian Archer, The Courtyard's chief executive.

"It is a vital organisation in the county and we want to remain a key part of the Herefordshire community for generations to come.

"We need the support of local people, through donations and ticket purchases, during the challenging times we face ahead.

"We are extremely grateful to those who already support our work throughout Herefordshire.”

The funding gap doesn't put the venue in danger of closing but bosses say it could mean new projects supporting communities in the county may no longer be possible.

The Courtyard is currently collecting donations to the Mind the Gap! appeal.

They can be made in person at the box office, by phoning 01432 340555, online at courtyard.org.uk, by post with cheques to The Courtyard made for attention of Lucy Wells, or by texting Need98 + £sum to 70070.