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A Dorset fundraiser has played down the postponement of Swanage bandstand opening concert. Alan Houghton, the Friends of Swanage Bandstand founder, has devoted two and a half years to raising money for the complete rebuild of the bandstand. Refurbishment of the town's popular Victorian structure is close to completion, with just the audience seating and remaining railings to be installed. The charity was formed after 200 people attended a crisis meeting with the bandstand facing its final curtain. In excess of £100,000 has been raised by the FOSB group, in addition to a £40,000 government coastal revival grant and £50,000 pledged by Swanage Town Council. The estimated final cost of the bandstand restoration is around £209,000. The opening ceremony will now take place at the end of October with a performance by the Swanage Town Band.