Theatre bosses feel 'delighted' to receive a share of the Culture Recovery fund but they still need donations to keep the arts centre open.

South Hill Park Arts Centre in Bracknell was among 1,385 arts organisations across England to receive an award from the Culture Recovery Fund by Arts Council England on October 12.

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The money aims to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and to ensure arts centres have a sustainable future.

The award left SHP bosses 'delighted' but donations are still needed to keep theatre from closing down.

Craig Titley, South Hill Park Chief Executive, said: "On behalf of the Trustees, staff, volunteers and audiences at South Hill Park we are delighted and grateful to Arts Council England and the DCMS for awarding the Arts Centre a Culture Recovery Fund grant.

"South Hill Park Arts Centre has been serving the people of Bracknell Forest for almost 50 years and sits at the heart of our community. "Over 200,000 people every year take part in a performing or visual arts course, watch a live performance or cinema screening or enjoy the beautiful grounds. The arts enrich our lives and this grant is a lifeline which will see us into 2021 with greater confidence and hope for the future.

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"Thanks to this award we have now raised over £300,000 of our £500,000 fundraising target."

In June 2020, South Hill Park's CEO Craig Titley made an announcement that "the future remains uncertain" for the arts centre in Bracknell.

Like hundreds of venues across England, the arts centre was forced to close due to Covid-19 restrictions, and has struggled to survive ever since.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden added: "This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation. It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.

"These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country. This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly."

Sir Nicholas Serota Chair Arts Council England, said: ‘Theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues bring joy to people and life to our cities, towns and villages. This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences. Further funding is still to be announced and we are working hard to support our sector during these challenging times."