The Plough Arts Centre, a beloved cultural hub in the heart of Great Torrington, has secured a £45,000 grant from Torridge District Council, and a £15,000 grant from Great Torrington Town Council - providing crucial support as it continues its turnaround journey under new leadership.
The Plough had been operating at a significant deficit in recent years. However, a transformation is now underway. Appointed in September 2024, new Chief Executive Emma Marston brought a clear vision and a proven track record in leading charity recoveries. Together with the newly restructured Board of Trustees she developed and implemented a five step recovery plan.
“Within weeks of joining The Plough, it became clear we were losing between £5,000 and £7,000 each month,” said CEO Emma Marston in her address to Torridge District Council. “We had to act quickly and decisively. The first step of the recovery plan—reducing costs—has already been completed. This included difficult decisions such as staff restructuring, reducing hours, and streamlining operations. Thanks to our dedicated staff and fantastic volunteer team, we’ve now cut our monthly losses by over 50% and I’m delighted to say that we have reported a small surplus in the first quarter of this new financial year— which is very encouraging!”
Step two of the recovery plan—focused on increasing income—is also producing results. A data-led programming strategy has boosted ticket sales by 35%, with more popular events such as comedy and tribute acts drawing larger audiences. In addition, the CEO and board has taken proactive steps to secure grant funding and continues to have support from its major stakeholders, The Arts Council England and the National Lottery.
“The Plough is now operating with a leaner team and a clearer, more sustainable strategy,” said CEO Emma Marston. “We are so grateful to the local authorities and community for their support - we are committed to keeping the centre at the heart of the community —offering a place to have fun, socialise, be inspired and get creative”. Chair of Trustees Fran Hardiman says “It’s such exciting news, these grants will provide a buffer until our longer-term plans and strategies have time to fully take effect”
The £45,000 from Torridge District Council will be provided over two years, and the £15,000 from Great Torrington Town Council will be provided immediately.
The funding will help The Plough to maintain its public programming while continuing on its path toward financial sustainability.
To learn more about The Plough Arts Centre watch their video:
https://www.theploughartscentre.org.uk/what-we-do
