A project to transform a derelict building into a creative school for Thanet youth has hit its target.

The fundraiser, set up in April by Arts Education Exchange CIC, has raised the £36,979 needed to create xChange Studios in Cliftonville.

With a design by Studio Octopi, the money will be used to install a professional recording studio and multi-use art space.

With the highest rate of child poverty in Kent, the studio in Cliftonville west will offer a range of creative education programmes for young people.

Supported by the Turner Contemporary and Dreamland, and endorsed by Tracey Emin and musicians Marcus Mumford (of Mumford & Sons), Django Django and Frank Turner, the project aims to tackle the lack of opportunity in the area.

Margate artist Tracey Emin said: "I think xChange Studios project is a wonderful initiative.

"It is exactly what the young people of Margate need, as I am convinced that Margate is going to become a cultural epicentre."

The campaign was set up by Arts Education Exchange, which was founded by teacher Oliver Briggs in 2017.

"Despite such high levels of deprivation, Margate is currently undergoing a cultural revolution with an influx of new residents and businesses many relating to creative industries," he said.

"The plan is to create a purpose-built space for the organisation's project which will specialise in education through visual arts, music and lens-based media by working directly with industry professionals.

"The new design includes a fully equipped recording studio, three multi-purpose art studios, a video editing suite, a lounge/ meeting space and two offices.

"Plans to establish an in-house record company to provide a platform for young people to gain skills and opportunities to access the music industry, as well as a specific job training scheme are underway."

Donations by the Colyer Fergusson Trust and Esmee Fairbairn Foundation, along with 210 pledges from the community have brought the campaign alive.

Rebecca Ellis, senior creative producer at Dreamland, said: "This is a great initiative and will provide exciting opportunities for young people in Thanet.

"We are looking forward to working with Arts Education Exchange to deliver their creative education projects."