Actor and comedian Steve Coogan is to run the Brighton Marathon to raise money for the Whitehawk Inn.
The community centre and learning hub is one of six local charity partners for the marathon which takes place on Sunday 15 April next year.
The Brighton-based comedian will be joined by Andrea Fox, the Juice FM presenter.
Their support comes at a critical time for the Whitehawk Inn which has just started its Learning for Life appeal.
Frances Duncan, director of the Whitehawk Inn, said that the appeal was vital for the survival of an essential community training centre which was in danger of closing.
The centre, next to the bus garage in Whitehawk Road, describes itself as a community-led organisation providing support, information and advice about learning and work.
Sussex Police and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service have given their backing to the appeal.
Chief Fire Officer Des Prichard said: “The work they are doing is really right at the heart of the local community and is a real example of how to engage with and support local people.”
Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett, the police divisional commander for Brighton and Hove, said: “I am delighted on behalf of Brighton and Hove Police to support this appeal.
“I was amazed at the range of facilities Frances and the team provide to help local people either get back on their feet or reach their potential.
“It’s a perfect example of communities helping the community and is the key to improving people’s lives and regenerating neighbourhoods.”
East Sussex Fire and Rescue said that crime statistics suggested that over the past ten years the area of East Brighton served by the Whitehawk Inn had become safer.
The area around the former pub was now a more desirable place to live and work.
The fire service said that it was unlikely to be a coincidence that the positive changes had taken place since the Whitehawk Inn had begun providing some of the most important services to everyday life.
For more information, some of the learners’ stories and details on how you might be able to support this campaign, visit www.whinn.org.uk or contact Frances Duncan on 01273 682222.
For more information visit www.whinn.org.uk.
