AVONWAY Community Centre in Fordingbridge has officially launched its appeal to raise around £70,000 to fix its leaky roof.

A Crowdfunding page has gone live for the Roof at Risk Appeal in addition to a number of planned fundraising initiatives.

Chairman Chris Calder said: “Recent heavy rain meant buckets under leaks and problems with lighting in one of our main rooms. If you value what Avonway is and does, please help us by making a donation.”

The community centre says it does not receive income from Hampshire County Council, New Forest District Council or Fordingbridge Town Council for its day to day operations, adding: “Everything we spend we have to raise ourselves. We host over 30 local groups and charities, fulfilling an invaluable role in the community.”

Avonway treasurer Richard Kelly said: “We’ve already raised a significant sum, and have a donation of £1,000 from the Bridge Club and £300 from Roxy Bellows.

“We will be applying for grants, but know that funders favour those who help themselves, which makes the money we raise all the more important.”

Centre users have been challenged to come up with ways of fundraising.

Supporters can also buy a slate for £5 and have their name included on the roll of honour, which will be concealed in a time capsule in the new roof.

Avonway user Dave Tree of All The Cool Stuff, has made the Roof at Risk Appeal his designated charity for the Lego Event taking place at the town hall and at Avonway on Saturday, November 2.

In the spring, there will be a fashion show organised jointly with the local branch of Cancer Research UK to raise funds for both charities.

The ‘fashion’ part is provided by the Travelling Trends team. The evening will start with fizz and there will be also be a raffle.

To make a donation online go to crowdfunder.co.uk/we-need-a-new-roof-1.

The Avonway office will also be able to accept donations.

For more information call 01425 652706 or go to avonway.org