Just one week after Highest Score Arcade in Salisbury announced a “last ditch” attempt to avoid closure, donors from around the world have helped the venue raise £3,000 in order to cover the rising costs involved in keeping the Cross Keys Shopping Centre site open.

Highest Score Arcade in Salisbury has received more than £3,000 in donations from local and international supporters following a “last ditch” attempt to keep the Cross Keys Shopping Centre site open.

Owner James Petherick had appealed to customers earlier this month to contribute whatever they can during the arcade’s last weekend, however the call was taken up by fans from across the globe.

“We’ve been blown away by the generosity and kindness people have shown,” said Petherick. “Locals, businesses, and supporters around the world have come together to keep something special alive for Salisbury.”

“Thanks to everybody who has supported the arcade over the last couple of weeks, especially the last two days that we’ve been open. The people of Salisbury, Wiltshire, farther afield, even around the world, have raised just over £3,000 to secure the short-term future of the arcade.”

The retro arcade launched last August, offering classic cabinets, pinball machines, air hockey, table football, and pool, however rising costs and low footfall meant the business has struggled to cover the cost of operation.

Now, Petherick hopes the money secured last weekend will keep the arcade open throughout the summer, and extended his thanks to local businesses Eden Wellness, Artisan Wine, and Salisbury Business Podcast for supporting Highest Score.

“It’s gonna take us a couple of days to get the booking system up and running. Please check our website and our socials for our current opening times, and we look forward to seeing you in the future. Thank you again for all your support.”