Musicians' plea for funding to build new studio (From Thisisdorset)

Musicians' plea for funding to build new studio

3:00pm Friday 7th September 2012 in Latest By Jane Reader

BUDDING musicians at a Christchurch youth centre have made a desperate appeal for funding to allow them to complete work on a new music studio.

Despite raising an impressive £49,000 to convert a post-War bunker, the fund is still a tantalising £4,000 short of its target.

Until the rest of the money is secured, youngsters at Somerford Youth Centre are unable to use the new studio.

Youth worker Steve Cox-O’Rourke said the 13-19-year-olds are keen for the new facility to be completed as soon as possible.

Their skills include mixing on decks, drumming, guitar and bands.

Steve, the senior youth worker for centres in Christchurch, said additional costs have been identified as work has progressed and more electrical work is needed.

“A huge amount of money has been raised and our young people have been successful in applying for money from the Youth Opportunities Fund.

“We have also received money from Dorset County Council’s Early Intervention Service and from Sovereign Twynham” he said.

“We have been involved in fundraising but we are now hoping for donations or suggestions as to how we can raise the rest of the money so we can get it finished before the costs get even higher.”

The bunker is the same size as the Bingham Road centre and has a number of different rooms. Work has included emergency lighting, ventilation and fire alarms and facilities include a recording studio, rehearsal room, chill-out zone and office.

Anyone who thinks they can help should contact Steve at the Lighthouse Youth Centre in Barrack Road, Christchurch on 01202 588041.