The Arc arts centre, in Caterham-on-the-Hill, is delighted to announce that local entrepreneur David Gold has offered his support by becoming Patron of The Arc. David Gold is owner of Gold Group International, the parent company of Ann Summers including KnickerBox, and Gold Aviation Ltd. He is also Chairman of West Ham Football Club.

Locally, Mr Gold is a supporter of The Soper Hall, Whyteleafe FC, Dial-a-Ride, The Tandridge Community Fund and St. Catherine's Hospice.

The Arc has, like many arts organisations, struggled to keep its wide range of services going in this tough financial time. With ongoing support from the community, staff and volunteers, the founding charity The Caterham Barracks Community Trust and now the support of Mr Gold, the Arc is certain that it will be able to weather the storm and continue to deliver a high quality arts and recreation programme.

Beth Wood, The Arc's Artistic Director, said: "I met Mr Gold last year when he visited the Arc after an interview on Ridge Radio, then situated just opposite our building. We showed him round and he was hugely interested in the young musicians rehearsing for a 'Battle of the Bands' competition and in the rest of the building and how it worked. In the radio interview he had mentioned his autobiography and when I went away and read it I was bowled over by the story of this feisty but compassionate man, who had totally transformed his life and the lives of others around him.

"We are absolutely thrilled that Mr Gold has agreed to become our patron. He has been kind enough to give us a substantial donation towards our community arts projects which will allow us to continue to work with the adults and children with special needs. Just as important to us is the knowledge that Mr Gold, with his huge experience and expertise, is now a part of The Arc. In our soft play area we have a 40 foot dragon which always takes away the breath of children when they see it for the first time. Mr Gold is our second 'Dragon'!"

For more information about The Arc arts centre visit www.the-arc-caterham.co.uk