LONG term supporters of the Lister Hall are being called upon to help bring the building into the 21st century.

The Chantry Centre, which is the name for the Lister Hall and club building in Dursley, is launching a ‘friend of’ charity scheme to help raise money to fund vital refurbishment work.

The trustees of the building are hoping that the support they received from a campaign two years ago to keep the Lister Hall open will continue in this next phase.

Trustee of the Chantry Centre Geoff Wheeler said: "The committee is working on plans to completely refurbish the Chantry Centre - with new lighting, new toilets and changing rooms.

"We will create a new, welcoming foyer for the hall and expand the activities that take place on the site - to make it more economically viable. Long term we could be looking at showing films as well as hosting the events for which the Lister Hall has always been well known and loved."

The committee has come up with a range of donation packages, which supports can sign up for, whether it is a small one off payment or a sponsorship deal.

For £15 a year you can become a friend of the Chantry Centre and receive three newsletters a year, for £50 a year you can become a supporter and you will receive automatic entry into the supporters club draw with monthly prizes over £20, plus an invitation to the annual Chantry Centre social.

You can also become a patron from £100 and get a range of perks or even sign up for corporate sponsorship.

Mr Wheeler added: "All this work will take money, so we are applying for grants - but we need your help too, especially as grants are now harder to get."

For a ‘Friend of the Chantry Centre’ form and more details call Geoff Wheeler on 01453 545583, email geof.wheeler@btinternet.com or pick one up from the hall.