CAMPAIGNERS seeking to buy Helensburgh's Tower cinema have put in their formal bid for funding.
The Save the Tower campaign announced they have lodged their submission to the Scottish Land Fund to help support the purchase of the venue.
If successful, the fund would contribute up to 90 per cent of the valuation towards the purchase of The Tower Cinema and Arts Centre.
Campaigners, who have called their organisation The Venue @ Saint Columba, will also need to raise funds from the public and other bodies.
A decision from the SLF is not expected until February or March 2025.
Announcing the update on Facebook, they said: "It is in! Scottish Land Fund Submission #2 has been officially submitted! This is the final SLF submission. This is the big one.
"Fingers crossed!
"It is unlikely that we will hear back before Christmas. We are expecting Feb/March 2025. Obviously we'll keep everyone up to date with any SLF news."
On Friday, the Tower hosted the Bandwidth show with bands entertaining crowds.
Donna Hicks, part of the campaign, said: "It was a fantastic event and it was a sell-out and people of all ages attended.
"The Save the Tower Steering Group had two main objectives - to raise money for our campaign, and to give young local bands an opportunity to perform in an amazing venue.
"Both objectives were well and truly met. We think we raised approximately £3,500 and the quality of the performances was excellent.
"Miriam opened the show with her beautiful vocals and acoustic set. It was her first gig and she was excellent.
"Next up was Radhika who was simply amazing. Radhika used to volunteer at The Tower and it was very special having her back performing.
"Lost in Translation were next on the bill and brought the house down. Front man Ollie Hicks (who has previously volunteered and worked at The Tower) was very much involved in organising the event and his input was very much appreciated by the steering group. Closing the show was The Renaissance and their talent and experience was evident to all."
Donna added: "It was a great reminder of what a sold out live event at The Tower feels like. It’s a very special place and the atmosphere was phenomenal.
"We are delighted at how successful Bandwidth was, and we are grateful to Music in the Square (Helensburgh Community Council) for a donation towards putting the event on."
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