Tens of thousands enjoy Havant's vibrant arts hub

The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre, in East Street, Havant, is one of the few arts venues that is both an arts centre and museum in one.

The centre’s annual review for 2015/2016 shows more than 168,800 people visited the venue, while a further 33,000 people were engaged through the outreach programme, which sees performances, workshops and events take place across Havant.

These results are particularly impressive as they account for more than one visit per Havant borough resident.

Sophie Fullerlove, director of The Spring, said: ‘We try to punch above our weight when it comes to the performers who appear in our theatre and the quality of the events we manage.

‘We are particularly excited when we are able to bring well-known faces to Havant for audiences to enjoy in an intimate venue.

‘Where else could you see artists like The Blockheads, Gareth Gates or Martin Kemp so closely?’

The Spring is run by a staff team of 17 supported by 84 volunteers. They put their success down to a vibrant programme of events and pride themselves on attracting high profile performers to a small town.

And it’s not just music performances and concerts that get people talking about The Spring.

The organisation has also recently been praised for the quality of its live theatre and comedy programme.

Sophie added: ‘We want people in this area to be able to see the best live performance available, so we try to make sure we put on something for everyone.

‘But, we couldn’t enjoy our success without the support of our funders, volunteers and audiences.

‘They make The Spring the venue it is and are the reason we want to get even better.’

The Spring is also the home of Havant’s heritage collection and will this year be celebrating the area’s link with the iconic Scalextric brand.

Go to thespring.co.uk.