FUNDRAISERS in Brockenhurst have just nine months to raise £160,000 to save plans to revamp their village hall.

They have already raised £210,000 in donations and pledges since they launched the ambitious £378,000 project in October 2003.

The cash is needed to complete the first stage of the scheme to create a community arts centre which would include a stage and exhibition space.

Waste management company Onyx has offered a grant of £50,000 from the landfill tax but it will only be available if the grand total is in hand or pledged by December.

Brockenhurst Village Trust chairman John Purkess told the group's annual meeting: "You may ask, 'Why did the trust sign when there is such a considerable sum still to be raised?'

"The board took the view that if we did not accept their terms, and therefore did not sign the agreement, it would reduce our current fund, with pledges to £160,000. It would negate the amount of work that had been done for the application.

"More importantly, it would give the impression that we are pessimistic about our capabilities to raise funds.

"This would not enhance our chances of securing future funds, from either the local authorities or other trusts and would also give the impression that there is no urgency in this project and we are prepared just to wait and see if it ever happened."

An Onyx spokesman said: "The reason we impose the condition that the project has to get all of the funding commitment by a certain date is so the project we agree to give money to actually goes ahead."

Mr Purkess urged the community to attend planned fundraising events.

Volunteers are needed for an opera supper on April 1, the New Forest Needlework Fiesta on April 9 and 10, a fashion show on April 28, a quiz night on May 7 and a dinner/dance on

May 14. Details are available from Fred Helyer on 01590 623106.