A FORMER historic church which is now a community arts centre in the heart of Ilminster has been gifted £1000 by a housebuilder.

Ilminster Arts Centre has been enriching the cultural life of the community for almost 30 years, providing a place for artists to showcase their talents, live music events and creative workshops for people of all ages.

The donation is from Persimmon South West and is part of the housebuilder’s Community Champions initiative, which donates up to £750,000 a year to good local causes and organisations right across Great Britain.

The centre is run mainly by volunteers and relies heavily on donations. Like many charities, it has been affected by the pandemic and therefore warmly welcomed this donation which was awarded from Persimmon’s Community Champions initiative.

Commenting on the donation, Ilminster Arts Centre manager, Samantha Miller said: “We are very grateful for this kind donation from Persimmon Homes South West.

“The funding will allow us to bring our IT systems into the 21st century and means we can continue to provide a comfortable, welcoming and modern space in the community for all visitors to the Arts Centre.”

The leading housebuilder’s Community Champion’s initiative is open to all charities and organisations.

Over the course of a year, it provides financial support of up to £750,000 to good local causes and organisations across Great Britain.

Stacey Harris, sales director at Persimmon Homes South West, said: “What we do is about far more than just building quality homes – we’re also committed to providing support and leaving a lasting positive legacy in the communities we build in.

“Our Community Champions initiative is all about supporting worthwhile causes in local communities, and with our presence in Ilminster and across Somerset, we couldn’t have found a more fitting recipient.

“We’re delighted to be able to support Ilminster Arts Centre on this occasion with a £1,000 donation, which will help them to improve their internet connection and ultimately provide an even better experience for visitors and the local community.”