The Redbrick buildings at the old Morland site had a major boost in June when Bridgwater College joined the project to refurbish them as studios and workshops for local art and craftspeople.

  Trainees will begin work on the site this summer. Portable teaching buildings are due to arrive, and the college will take permanent space when renovation is complete in December.

  Of all Somerset colleges, Bridgwater is the strongest for vocational training in construction — plasterers, carpenters, plumbers and electricians-to-be commute from a wide area, including Glastonbury. These courses are free for people seeking work: they can drop in at the Redbrick cafe to find out details from college staff.

  As a result of the college signing the contract, other backers are prepared to release additional funds to complete the work on two of the three buildings, said Robin Howell, a Redbrick spokesman.

  Somerset Art Weeks in September will be the first public use of the Redbrick buildings. Paul Branson and two other artists are preparing shows. Gareth Mills, proprietor of the Speaking Tree bookshop and warehouse, has joined the organizing committee.

  The Redbrick project has already celebrated its new life with its first live entertainment: a surprise 50th birthday party on June 21 for Stuart Constable, the man who has run the on-site cafe for the past year.