AN urgent appeal has been launched to help raise money for essential repairs to the iconic 160-year-old Cardigan Guildhall.

The building has been hit by a string of problems in recent weeks – the lift has broken down, the clock has stopped working and there are problems with water getting in.

Now a £10,000 fund-raising appeal has been launched by Menter Aberteifi, the

not-for-profit community organisation that operates and manages the Grade II* listed Guildhall as a community resource.

An estimate for £3,000 has been received for repairs to the lift, with £2,000 needed for the clock and the rest of the money for running repairs to the fabric of the building.

Menter Aberteifi’s Julian Beynon-Lewis said: “We took it over from Ceredigion Council in 2008 and since then have been running it on behalf of the community. We receive no regular core funding from any source and have been able to just about break even.

“This year we have had major breakdowns of both the main lift, which allows disabled access to the upper floor and also the iconic Guildhall clock, which dominates the Cardigan skyline.

“In addition to this urgent remedial work is needed to cure water ingress problems with the front windows and elevations of the building. We have very little to contribute towards these costs so are hoping to crowdfund at least part of the costs. We need to raise at least £10,000.”

A justgiving page has been set up, while a letter has also been sent to the town council to see if any funds are available to help.

“It is unfortunate that all these things have come at once and also our funds are low because of the 18 months when work was being carried out on the market and which cost us a lot of income,” added Mr Beynon-Lewis.

“We would otherwise have had the reserves to do the work but somehow we have got to stand the cost and get the work done.

“We are looking to try to get cheaper quotes but we do need help.

“We are also looking at possible grant applications but whatever people can give would be gratefully received to help maintain this important heritage building and Cardigan landmark.”

To contribute, go to justgiving.com/crowdfunding/cardiganguildhall