The Arc arts centre, in Caterham on the Hill, is very excited to announce that local entrepreneur David Gold has offered his support by becoming our Patron. David Gold is known nationally as a very successful entrepreneur, owner of Gold Group International, the parent company of Ann Summers including KnickerBox. He is also, famously, Chairman of his much-loved West Ham Football Club. To those in Surrey he is also known for his continued support of local community groups and organisations, among them Whyteleafe Football Club and Soper Hall, and for his inspirational talks for young business students and entrepreneurs.
The Arc has, like many arts organisations, struggled to keep its wide range of services going in this tough financial time. With ongoing support from the community, our staff and wonderful volunteers, the founding charity The Caterham Barracks Community Trust and now the support of Mr Gold we are certain that we will be able to weather the storm and continue to deliver our high quality arts and recreation
programme for those whose voices are quietest.
Beth Wood, The Arc's Artistic Director, spoke of Mr Gold, 'I met Mr Gold first last year when he visited the Arc after an interview on Ridge Radio, then situated just opposite our building. We showed him round and he was hugely interested in the young musicians at that point rehearsing for a Battle of the Bands and in the rest of the building and how it worked. In the interview he had mentioned his autobiography and when I went away and read it I was bowled over by the story of this feisty but compassionate man, who had totally transformed his life and the lives of others around him. We are absolutely thrilled that Mr Gold has agreed to become our patron. He has been kind enough to give us a substantial donation towards our community arts projects which will allow us to continue to work with the adults and children with special needs. Just as important to us is the knowledge that Mr Gold, with his huge experience and expertise, is now a part of the Arc. In our soft play we
have a 40 foot dragon which always takes away the breath of children when they see it for the first time. Mr Gold is our second 'Dragon' and it feels like a similar 'magic', certain to help us develop and to positively affect the service we offer to the 9000 youngsters and adults who come each month to the Arc.'
The Arc Arts Centre provides a unique service for the community; it is a much needed resource of which Caterham can be proud. This Easter they have many exciting Easter Courses. There are many courses of dance, drama or cookery from 2nd April through to 11th April and full details can be found on the web site www.the-arc-caterham.co.uk
