AN Exmouth art group who feared closure after they were kicked out of their previous home are celebrating their new studio.

AN Exmouth art group who feared closure after they were kicked out of their previous home are celebrating their new studio.

Exmouth Ceramic Group's new pottery studio got under way this week as builders started converting the outbuildings at Rethink, in Meeting Lane, into the new studio.

The group were determined to survive and find new premises when they were suddenly given notice to leave the Kennaway Centre after 35 years with Devon Adult and Community Learning.

After news of closure last July the 50-member group has worked hard to fundraise the �10,000 needed to make the studio a reality.

Grants from The Grassroots Fund, Councillor Bernard Hughes and Councillor Brenda Taylor, and Connaught as well as the groups own fundraising efforts have reached the total needed.

The group's Secretary Jane Moffatt, said: "It is so wonderful to see the work begin. "We hope to be up and running by the end of March and are already planning our Annual Exhibition and Clay in the Park which take place as part of the Exmouth Festival."

If anyone would to join the group contact Jenny Pitts on (01395)265004.