A former pub in Brookend could be given a new lease of life as the home for Chapel Creatives, a Community Interest Company set up to help improve the mental health and wellbeing of people living in, or visiting Ross, through art and creativity.

Artist Mary Deaville, who had the original idea for Chapel Creatives, had hoped to set up a base in the Old Chapel in Cantilupe Road but this was not possible, but she is thrilled to have been offered another possible home for the group.

The Barrel in Brookend is available for rent and Mary told the Ross Gazette she has been offered a very favourable arrangement if she can agree to terms within a month.

Mary told the Gazette that the site is perfect for what she wants to establish.

She is looking for three more artists to join her, in return they will have a studio space where they can work as well as providing free workshops.

However, Mary’s more immediate concern is that the building is not really fit for this purpose yet. She said it will need some electrical work, as well as plumbing and some flooring will have to be carried it to convert it from a bar into a home for artists. She is appealing to all tradespeople or local companies who may be able to assist in this Community Interest Company, to contact her. She will be at The Venue, Hill Street, on March 23rd between 3pm and 7pm where she will provide all the information.

She said: “This is really like DIY SOS, but if I cannot get the community behind me within a month, so that I can let the landlord know I am serious about taking this place on, then it will not happen.”

She added: “This is a viable option for Chapel Creatives to establish itself, anyone who cannot make the meeting or would like further information please email [email protected]”See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here