FRIENDS of Scarr Bandstand are looking to raise funds for an important facility at the site, which will ensure it is accessible for everybody.

The group has set up a Crowdfunder, as it looks to add a permanent, vandal-proof disabled-access composting toilet close to the Bandstand, with a gentle ramp from the disabled car parking area. It already has permission from Forestry England, and the contractors are standing by - but currently it does not have the funds to install it.

The Friends’ target is £8,000 and its online fundraiser has currently reached just over £6,000. It had already obtained some funding for the toilet from Gloucestershire County Council, Forest of Dean District Council and Coleford Town Council.

While the money it has raised is impressive, the Friends must reach its goal by October 19, as all donations under £250 will be matched by Coleford-based Suntory's Community Fund - as long as the target is reached by the deadline set.

Alison Collison, Secretary of Friends of Scarr Bandstand said: “We want everyone to be able to enjoy the Scarr Bandstand, and we have made huge efforts to make the site as accessible as possible, but we don't have an accessible toilet.

“We believe that there are many people who are unable to come to events, or have to leave early, because the portaloos we hire for the season are not suitable for them. These chemical toilets, which have to be transported, are also not environmentally friendly.

"We have been really heartened by the amazing response and we are up to 70 per cent of the target already. We have to get to 100 per cent by October 19 though, in order for Suntory to match the donations. If we succeed, the toilet can become a reality. Any amount donated, however small, would be very much appreciated.

Alison added: “A massive thank you to everyone who has supported this project via Crowdfunder. A permanent accessible toilet may not sound very glamorous, but it will make a huge difference for performers, audience or volunteers at the Bandstand for years to come.”

The plea comes following a hugely successful summer for the Scarr Bandstand. It welcomed a record-breaking number of outdoor events, under its spectacular new roof - which the Friends said they were delighted with, and relieved the roof worked so well, including improvements of the acoustics.

The summer saw two brass band concerts, two theatre shows, an afternoon of rock, rhythm and blues, a mix of classical music and school choirs, and a celebration of local community talent, with Morris and clog dancing, a swing band and two local choirs.

The local Cub Scouts and a poetry group also ran their own events, and Friends of Scarr Bandstand hopes that more groups will consider using the site for their own events in the future.

You can help Scarr Bandstand raise its goal by searching for Scarr Bandstand Crowdfunder via your internet browser.

You can get more information by contacting Alison on 01594 810966 or email [email protected].