Archer’s star to aidhistoric art roomin the heart of Rye

The centre is in the process of being converted into a two-screen, 150-seat cinema venue and The Fletcher Group’s design for the cinema has managed to preserve the art-room.

Hugh Kermode, from the Fletcher Group, said: “Inevitably there were some unforeseen challenges which didn’t appear in the original project, so what better way to pay for the long-term future of The Art Room than with an auction of Art.”

The auction takes place at The George in Rye on Wednesday November 26. Doors open at 7pm, auction starts at 7.30. The auctioneer is Tim Bentinck - David Archer in The Archers.

Hugh Kermode said: “So far we’ve had some really interesting donations for auction, including an Edward Piper and a portrait of Spike Milligan, donated by his family and painted by Charles Newington.”

Viewing of the lots takes place at Fletcher’s House TeaRooms, Lion Street, on Sunday 23 and Monday 24 November or online at fletcherinrye.co.uk. Tickets are £15, including a glass of wine and canapés and are available from The Tourist Information Centre, Lion Street, Rye: 01797 229049.