An appeal to secure the future of a community hall in the town has seen a surge in donations.

Bridport Nub News reported last week that the St Mary's Church House Hall Crowdfunder had slowed and trustees hoped for more donors.

But it took a significant step forward yesterday (Tuesday) when it reached 25 per cent of its target. This resulted in an immediate extra funding pledge by Power to Change from Active Dorset, a community interest company. It has added £5,000 to the fund, raising to total to around £7,590 - 75.9 per cent of the target.

Hall chairman Monty Crook said: "This sum comes with conditions, notably more than 50 individual supporters must have pledged - total now at 55 - and the appeal must meet its target of £10,000 by May 10.

"That means the hall needs to raise another £2,411 to succeed. Whilst the committee is on tenterhooks at this challenge, there is a possibility that another extra funding partner may now pledge anything up to £2,500 which would be of significant help.

"Nevertheless, the push to get the total over the line continues and anyone new to this appeal, or who has considered donating but not quite got round to it, can still do so."

Donations can be made on the Crowdfunder page here or by cheque, made payable to St Mary's Church House Hall. This can be sent to Church House Hall, c/o 97a North Allington, Bridport, DT6 5DZ.