A set design and scenery company has launched a crowdfunding appeal - with some incredible competitions and experiences on offer for those who pledge.

Tandem Set and Scenery in Paddock Wood has worked on various theatre productions, for companies like Kopperburg and Coca Cola and on projects like Wembley's summer cinema, numerous escape rooms and popular venue Swingers crazy golf course.

But it has seen work dry up as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, with planned projects in the entertainment, leisure and hospitality industries cancelled and staff put on furlough as a result.

Bosses at the firm - which prior to the pandemic employed 20 people - say there is a genuine threat the business will go under as it is struggling to access loans and promised government support for enterprises stricken by the lockdown.

So now the creative company is offering people the chance to take advantage of its skills in bringing the incredible to life if they pitch in to its online funding appeal.

Pledges can start small, but if you have got a more significant amount of cash available then their team could be coming to your house to construct a cosy shepherd's hut, install your own escape room or build a crazy-golf course in your back garden.

Glen Hughes, who started the business in London 12 years ago with partner Leah Morgan, said: "Once we are out of lockdown our industry will take a number of months to recover before we will start to get orders again.

"So we want to use that time to make spectacular stuff for your homes, schools and communities. Things that until now haven't been accessible to the public as these projects are almost exclusively commissioned on a commercial basis.

"It's time to bring some magic and theatre to the people that deserve it the most."

Although big bids can secure huge projects to transform your home, Mr Hughes is keen to allow everyone, whatever their budget, to support the business and get something in return.

For as little as £5 you can nominate a local community group to enter a draw for a transformation by the Tandem team, or slightly bigger contributions can secure you a place on a course to learn new hands-on skills like welding or furniture making.

Mr Hughes said: "On top of offering these amazing creations, we are also offering a truly unique opportunity to take advantage of our skills, knowledge and passion by running a range of exciting courses at our workshop."

An initial target of £43,000 has been set, but £84,000 will allow the business to clear costs accumulated during the lockdown and cover a first month back at work.

If you would like to support the appeal, and take advantage of the opportunities on offer, visit the Save Tandem crowdfunding page

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