Axe Vale Arts in Axbridge gains official charity status

Axe Vale Arts, housed in Axbridge's former Methodist Chapel, has achieved charity status <i>(Image: Harry Mottram)</i>
Axe Vale Arts, housed in Axbridge's former Methodist Chapel, has achieved charity status (Image: Harry Mottram)
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In just under three months, Axe Vale Arts has achieved official charity status, writes Harry Mottram.

The former Methodist Chapel in Axbridge has undergone a speedy journey to becoming an arts centre to serve the area, thanks to the work of the trustees, helpers, and supporters.

Trustee Peter Harding of Axbridge said: "This achievement is part of our ongoing journey, and it goes without saying that none of this would have been possible without the support from the community (including Axbridge Town Council) and the very many volunteers who have given so generously of their time and skills to help the Arts Centre come to life.

"There are too many names to mention, and we wanted to take this opportunity to declare our gratitude for everything that people have done so far."

Axe Vale Arts launched on July 6, 2025 and planned a rich programme of events this autumn that includes folk, jazz, and choral music, plus theatre, spoken word, literature events, and art exhibitions.

Paul Hughes, also a trustee, said: "Our programme is designed to appeal to a wide range of interests and needs.

"We particularly want to reach out to people who might not ordinarily have the opportunity to get involved in such activities and we will be making a small number of subsidised tickets available."

The third trustee, Jude Akhurst, added: "There is much work still to do, and we would love to hear from anyone interested in getting involved in our continuing development as an Arts Centre.

"We will only succeed with your help and support.

"Please talk to us to find out how you can get involved by calling in at the arts centre in West Street at one of our events, or message us via our Facebook site at facebook.com/axevalearts.

"Once again, heartfelt thanks to everyone in the Axe Vale community and beyond."

Axe Vale Arts is now a registered charity.

Charity number 1214701.

For further details about Axe Vale Arts and their forthcoming programme, visit the Axe Vale Arts site on TicketSource.

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