Lancaster arts venue to close

Alt-space, the home of Morecambe Fringe, has had its last 12 funding applications rejected. The festival's Director Matt Panesh said he cannot afford to keep the venue going himself, but hopes to raise £5000 to launch a new venue, cover outstanding debt and become financially independent. While Morecambe Fringe will continue, "the capacity for the local community to actively take part in the fringe sadly will be affected," he said.