CAMPAIGNERS fighting to keep a historic cinema in Ringwood from being turned into a shopping centre are pleading for donations to help finance their cause.

The Ringwood Regal group launched a crowdfunding website at the end of last month in a bid to raise money for a feasibility study on the Regal cinema and theatre project.

The building's owner, developer U+I Group, has told the representatives of the Save the Regal campaign they would seriously consider selling them the building.

Previous plans included keeping the facade of the building but developing new shops at the back, linking the Furlong to Market Place.

But the developer was unable to purchase further land, halting their plans.

At the time of going to press the campaign had received nearly £3,200 of their £5,000 target. It will be needed to pay for a study to ensure a multi-functional centre for entertainment at the Regal would be financially viable.

The group's chairman Mike Tuck said: "So we urgently need the support of the public and businesses who can pledge donations.

"If we reach our goal of £5,000 through this route, the Heritage Lottery Fund will also consider matching these donations, so we ask our supporters to be generous.

"Our aim is to bring back live entertainment to the centre of Ringwood with a 600 seat Theatre and Cinema and your Company could play an important part in making that happen."

Plans are emerging to host a special evening of entertainment and food, followed by a grand charity auction, at a venue to be confirmed within the town to further raise some much-needed cash.

"There will be some really great items on offer in the auction, so watch out for more news coming soon, this will be an evening to remember so don’t miss it," Mr Tuck added.

"This will be a fantastic opportunity for your business to be associated with this very prestigious project."

To donate to the campaign's cause visit crowdfunder.co.uk/ringwood-regal-feasibility or ringwood-regal.co.uk/fundraising.

Anyone interested in donating to the spring fundraiser next year through sponsorship is asked to call Mr Tuck on 01425 475129 or email info@ringwood-regal.co.uk.