A new community hub on The Parade needs to raise £3000 to cover its start-up costs before its opening in October.

Swindon Community Hub, situated in the old River Island building, will be a place where people can meet, eat, learn, create or run events.

Before this can happen, volunteers need to pay for insurance, lift servicing, and fire, safety and security system updates.

Volunteer Natalie North said: "We have arrived at an exciting point. Now the lease is signed, we are ready to turn this empty building into an amazing hub in Swindon's town centre."

More than a hundred visitors picked up cloths and brooms last Saturday to help volunteers get the space ready ahead of its official launch.

Plans for the Hub include an arts space, a cafe, retail stands, a community theatre, and meeting and events spaces.

Volunteer Jol Rose said: "We've had so many great ideas. Our next step is to make these dreams real - the Crowdfunder is key to getting the place ready.

"A community hub has never been more needed."

To donate, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/swindon-hub.