Human spirit at the heart of Kingdon House

The call for help to raise at least a further £100,000 by March 2018 to weatherproof the Grade 2 listed Kingdon House, has been answered by an amazing number of people offering help. Bringing together a vast range of creative skills and experience, a new Steering Group is in place to plan and organise fundraising events to raise the money needed. Kingdon House was designed and built in the ‘Arts & Crafts’ architectural style as part of the Duke of Bedford’s historic town planning initiative, responsible for Tavistock achieving World Heritage Site status.

Peter Jones, chair of trustees, said: “We have such a lot to do if we are to meet our tight funding deadlines to save this community centre, but with all the creative energy that is being freely unleashed, it’s looking very possible! So many people have approached us with their stories of time spent here and confirmed our belief in the importance of this building in our community.”

Karen Sharland from Reach Community Drama who leads a group in the studio, described Kingdon House as ‘a safe space for everyone retaining a real community feel, which is really needed in today's world’. Scott Russell who organises portrait art workshops said: “I am ever grateful that this unique centre is available to all. Having rooms available that are designed to make use of natural daylight for an art group is amazing. So much happens here seven days a week.” Mr Russell also runs a film club and has volunteered his time to help raise the profile of the building’s financial needs.

Kingdon House Community Centre’s new steering group is working hard to raise awareness of the financial needs through social media, printed material and events. Open days, band nights and other music and arts events are already taking place to raise the much-needed funds to ensure the building’s future. Local professionals and businesses are also donating time and skills to help raise the profile and ensure the future of Kingdon House.

Pat Bates has also opened up her empty premises in King Street as a pop-up gallery until Christmas, selling paintings, ceramics, etching, jewellery, photography and prints by local artists with all profits going to Kingdon House. Jennie Hale has donated the fabulous raku swan shown above as a raffle prize - raffle tickets are available at the gallery.

If you would like any further information, or would like to help, please contact Karen Woodward on 01822 615259 or at info@khcommunityassociation.org.uk