£3,000 donation secures additional revenue for local arts venue

A North Yorkshire venue for arts, events and community groups has received a boost to its ability to raise revenue with a £3,000 donation from a local manufacturer.

Glusburn Institute Community and Arts Centre provides a much-loved venue in the North Yorkshire village for events from concerts and film showings to hosting local groups such as the Brownies and amateur dance classes. The building is a grade II listed building which was founded more than 130 years ago by local mill owner, Sir John Horsfall.

Cross Hills-based chemical specialist, Airedale Group, has donated £3,000 towards the renovation of its chapel to provide an additional source of revenue for the charity, boosting its income.

Debby Richardson, centre manager at Glusburn Institute Community and Arts Centre, explains: “Highly-skilled artisans were required to restore the stained-glass windows in our chapel to make it a safe and useable space. The renovations mean we now have a beautiful and versatile room which is perfect for a range of events, from exercise sessions to corporate events.

“The institute has a fantastic history but it is an ageing building and support from businesses like Airedale Group help us carry out essential restorations that allow us to preserve the village’s heritage and provide a well-used community venue.”

The institute is an independent charity run by a small staff team of trustees and volunteers who are required to ensure that safety standards are adhered to, while maintaining its heritage and original features.

Daniel Marr, commercial director at Airedale Group, adds: “We were approached by Glusburn Institute Community and Arts Centre about the funds needed to restore its chapel and create a space that could generate income for the site. Given that the venue provides such a fantastic service to the local area and a place for many different community groups to meet, we were happy to help.

“The chapel now looks fantastic and we’re glad to hear that it is well-used.”

Airedale Group has previously supported the institute with funds to help run its wellbeing café which provides a welcoming place for residents with low-level mental health issues to meet and take part in creative activities.

Founded in 1973, Airedale Group is based in Cross Hills and provides chemicals and related services to the UK and Europe.