AN arts centre and charity in Cirencester has raised £12,000 to offer free sessions to members of the public. 

New Brewery Arts launched a campaign to raise money to pay for vulnerable and disadvantaged people in the community to access 1,200 free hours in their workshops.

Organisers say sessions provide people with a wide range of physical and mental-health benefits such as reduced social isolation and anxiety and increased confidence.

CEO Beth Alden said: “We would like to thank our amazing community for supporting our campaign not only through their kind donations but also their support and good wishes throughout the campaign.

“From our years of running courses and workshops here in our studios, it is clear that
making brings our students incredible health and wellbeing benefits. 

“We are excited to give this experience to those in our community who most need it.

“But we are not stopping there. We will continue to collect donations for New Brewery 
Hearts so that we can continue to provide vulnerable and disadvantaged people in our 
community with access to creativity.”

Participants for the sessions are often referred by organisations such as Cirencester Foodbank, The Churn Project and Cirencester Housing for Young People (CHYP).

Meanwhile, work from students will feature in its raw talent show, which runs in its gallery until July 27. 

More than 100 works are currently on show.