ONE of the country’s oldest amateur dramatic societies is appealing for help to save its historic hall.

Leigh’s St Joseph’s Players, founded around 1850, has launched a fundraising campaign to rescue their Chapel Street Hall, which has been home to plays, musicals, and pantomimes for generations.

The society, a registered charity, took over the running of the hall from the adjoining St Joseph’s RC Church after the pandemic left the building in disrepair.

However, a recent survey has shown the extent of the work that needs to be done.

Rainwater is entering the building in several places, resulting in damp, mould, and crumbling plasterwork.

Roof repairs are necessary, along with reinstating missing guttering and repointing brickwork.

Society members have already spent weekends giving some internal areas a facelift but now face a race against time to make the building watertight before winter.

A recent survey has shown the extent of the work that needs to be done (Image: Supplied) Grant applications are being explored, and the society has set up a GoFundMe page, which has raised more than £4,000 in donations so far.

Society chairwoman, Gabrielle Fitzsimons, said: "St Joseph’s Hall has been at the heart of our town since 1925.

"For many years it was the hub of the community, hosting weekly dances, drama festivals, school shows, and family celebrations.

"It is perhaps best known now as the home of St Joseph’s Players, who have been performing there for almost a century."

The hall is also home to other groups, including the Brownies.

Society members have cut operating costs by opening and closing the hall themselves, and have taken on cleaning, decorating, and administration duties in their spare time.

Members face a race against time to make the building watertight before winter (Image: Supplied) However, the future of the hall remains uncertain.

Ms Fitzsimons added: "We appreciate the financial difficulties many of us are facing right now so every single donation will be valued, no matter how large or small.

"This is a huge project and any help would be hugely appreciated.

"Alternatively, if any local businesses would be willing to provide sponsorship, or would be able to offer expertise, assistance, materials, or time, that would be wonderful."