HOPING to inspire a new generation of creatives a Launceston photographer has launched a mission to create a space for local creativity to thrive and shine.

Becky Webster is looking to form Broad Street Studios, a space for some of the area’s creative talents to explore, express, and display their skills, while also helping to breathe life into the town.

“I've lived here for a few years. My family have lived here for a lot longer. But I will admit to being quite ignorant in not knowing what was going on in Launceston,” she told the Post. “So, when I would visit five years ago, I felt as though there was nothing to do, there's nowhere to go. And I still feel like there's still not enough to do if you don't really like going to the pub.

“I think Pete's Games does wonderfully and I think he's providing such a needed and valuable space, but it's very niche. [Broad Street Studios] is going to be a community focussed space that's welcoming and inclusive.”

Becky also hopes the creation of such a space will provide opportunities for the town’s young residents. Alongside planning to provide free workshops for children within the town, she has also spoken to some of Launceston’s teachers about offering students their first step on the artistic ladder.

She wants the spaces to give priority to the town’s young creatives - helping them create, display and sell their work.

“For a career, they need experience and they're not able to get experience before they get the job and then no one wants to give them the job before they've got experience.”

She hopes, by giving young people a local platform, they can gain the necessary experience needed to launch a career in the arts.

However, despite excitement building around the plans, the space is still in its very early stages, with Becky needing to raise around £30,000 to secure a venue within the town.

With a space in mind, Becky says there is plenty to be done, but is hopeful the doors will be open in September this year, with the location to be officially announced in the coming months.

Alongside her own money, Becky has launched a Crowdfunder to top-up funds.

“I'm very much of the opinion you shouldn't just expect things for free,” she said. “So, I've got rewards that people can buy. One example is a photo-shoot where all of the proceeds go towards setting up the studio.”

Donations can be made via: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/broad-street-studio