ARTS and entertainment fans have been asked to save a treasured Peebles venue.

A fundraising campaign has been launched to raise £25,000 for the Eastgate Theatre, closed since March due to coronavirus restrictions.

The theatre's general manager Caroline Adam said: "We will simply not be able to open our doors again without significant financial help."

The Open Doors funding drive, which has raised almost £2,000 so far, aims to make up for loss of regular income.

Ms Adam said the theatre's finances have been hit "dramatically" and there are no longer reserves to draw on.

The theatre's coffers previously took a hit when the building was refurbished in 2019.

Ms Adam said: "It’s difficult to ask for more support given the fantastic response to our fundraising for the refurbishment last year, but this is an unprecedented situation."

She added: "We look forward to the day when this wonderful old building can reopen its doors as an exciting, safe, community space where local residents, friends and visitors will meet, take part in well-distanced creative activities and, eventually, enjoy the thrill of live performances in the theatre."

This summer, Friends of the Eastgate will release a series of short videos on their YouTube channel.

The clips will feature arts lovers who regard the theatre as making a valued contribution to their lives.

The chairwoman of the Friends, Catriona Lyon, believes Peeblesshire residents "cannot afford to lose" the venue.

She said: "The theatre provides a hub not only for the arts, but also every imaginable activity locally.

"As well as aiming to provide fantastic entertainment ahead of the theatre reopening, these short videos will really reinforce how deeply people care about the Eastgate."

To support the Eastgate, you can visit www.justgiving.com/campaign/Eastgatetheatreopendoors