OTLEY Courthouse has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money to refurbish its main auditorium - the Courtroom.

The venue - which is celebrating its 20th anniversary - aims to raise a minimum of £11,500.

A spokesperson for Otley Courthouse said: "We are amazed by the success we've had over the past 20 years, but as a charity, we pride ourselves on keeping our events and activities priced to maximise inclusion. With grant funding becoming increasingly hard to come by, we are launching our anniversary campaign in the hope that our valued supporters will help us raise the necessary funds.

"Our initial goal of £11,500 will allow us to replace our 70 chairs, most of which are as old as our beloved arts centre! These chairs are essential not only for our events but also for various classes and groups, including Singing for the Brain, Chair-Based Yoga, the Courthouse Choir, the Chippendale Singers, and Otley Brass Band, among others. By contributing to the replacement of these chairs, you are also supporting these vital community groups.

"If we reach our initial target, our stretch goals include upgrading our theatre lighting rig to make it more user-friendly, energy-efficient, and sustainable. Our ultimate dream is to raise a total of £70,000, which would allow us to replace our raked theatre seating with a motorised version, improving health and safety while also making life easier for our staff and volunteers.

Please support our crowdfunding campaign here: https://crowdfunder.co.uk/p/otleycourthouse-20

"Thank you in advance for all of your help and kind donations!"