A charity is looking for volunteers to help make a historic local building fit for events and entertainment long into the future.
Having worked on improvements during December, Forres Town Hall custodians Forres Area Community Trust (FACT) staff are appealing for help with phase two of its refurbishment.
FACT development manager Lorna Creswell (left).
Inspired by the voluntary work that has turned the Tolbooth into a thriving visitor attraction and venue, FACT development manager, Lorna Creswell, encouraged her colleagues to do some DIY.
She said: “Generous local businesses donated paint and brushes so over the festive period a handful of volunteers repaired low level plasterwork and chipped paintwork in the main hall. Stacked chairs had gouged walls leaving crumbling plaster and debris which ancillary staff had to sweep up every day. We’ve also been swapping light bulbs for lower cost ones to reduce fuel bills.
“Moray Council’s criminal justice community service team is painting higher levels next week but we’re looking for more volunteers to help longer term as there is still lots to work on.”
Phase one of FACT’s renovations entailed major roof works last year, which exhausted the trust’s funds. Their ambitious plans to modernise the building have altered but can be achieved with more community effort.
“It was agreed to retain the balcony and stage last summer,” said Lorna. “A refresh of ideas has been welcomed by user groups and audiences.
FACT secretary Tina Coffey hard at work.
“In the absence of funding at present, a consultant advising on any major works agreed that we can progress smaller tasks.”
Creative user groups have recently taken stock of items accumulated under the main hall’s stage. These microphones, amplifiers, speakers etc have been tested and made available for future events.
“Enhancing the halls’ appearance and improving sound and lighting is enhancing the visitor experience,” added Lorna, “and will show performers at their best.
“However, lighting and sound systems currently have to be hired – cost to user groups would be less if these were installed in the halls. This would encourage more external groups to book workshops, presentations, concerts etc.”
FACT is seeking new board members and volunteers with a broad range of skills to support phase 2 and stimulate ideas for the group’s future and funding.
Volunteer Jim King helping to fill holes and plaster.
“We need people with an interest in governance, human resources, fundraising, marketing and community development,” explained Lorna, “but passion for the community is a must!”
An income generating group already meets regularly to discuss events and activities, including the town hall’s popular Saturday morning coffee mornings.
An umbrella town hall user group also meets to discuss FACT’s progress and their own plans.
FACT is opening the town hall’s doors to anyone interested in volunteering opportunities and information about joining the board on Tuesday, January 14.
Anyone is welcome to attend the next board meeting on the evening of Monday, January 20.
A warm welcome awaits from FACT operations manager Nick Clark and development manager Michelle Gillibrand.
For further information, contact FACT via info@forresarea.org or 01309 674388.
“This is an exciting time to join us,” finished Lorna. “Enthusiasm will help us achieve the full potential of this wonderful, historic facility on our doorstep. Many hands make light work!”