AN appeal for funds to transform a Teesdale community hall is being launched.

Restoration work at the 19th Century Witham Hall, Barnard Castle, could cost up to £5m, a study found last year.

Plans include an art gallery, meeting rooms, a public computer suite, improved catering facilities, disabled access and a studio theatre.

A feasibility study last December found that there was strong public support for improvements and that they would be economically viable.

It produced concept designs at three different levels of development and cost the most expensive option at £5m.

Since then, a joint development team made up of Witham Hall representatives and the Castle Players theatre group has contacted architects and funding organisations.

Proposals will be put to a public meeting in the hall at noon next Saturday, when the players will perform The Mechanics Play, from their outdoor production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, being staged at Bowes Museum, from July 11 to 14.

The piece was chosen because The Witham is the modern name for the old Barnard Castle Mechanics' Institute. Music will be provided by the Black Sheep Morris Dancers.