A lightning storm in July caused "significant disruption" at the Kenilworth Centre, the charity has said.

The strike led to damage throughout the building, affecting internet and phone systems, as well as the centre's security infrastructure.

A full investigation later revealed that the recently installed solar panels on the roof were also damaged.

While the solar panel and electrical repairs should be covered by the centre's insurance - the scaffolding required for the fix, presents a rare opportunity to address longstanding issues with the roof.

There are "persistent leaks" into the main hall and the roof now "urgently" needs sealing and a full replacement of all fixings.

The total cost of these essential roof repairs is estimated to be around £8,000.

A "huge" amount of work over the last few years has increased the centre's income from room hire and it has gained further support with funding and donations, and as such it has managed to secure £4,000 of maintenance funds for the repair. 

"We are now calling on local businesses and the wider community to help us raise the remaining amount, so the roof can be repaired at the same time as the solar panels," a statement from the centre said.

"This will save future costs of erecting scaffolding twice. 

"After a soft launch at the AGM we have already received significant support and we hope to hit our target before the end of October.

"We will be hosting an afternoon tea fundraiser here at the Kenilworth Centre on Sunday 26 October with Ruth Reading from Barclays providing the cakes. 

"We will be playing music from "Singing In The Rain" and other water related tunes while serving tea, sandwiches and cake."

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-kenilworth-centre/t-kdoyjmk