THEATRE producer Cameron Mackintosh has donated £250,000 to the appeal set up following the devastating Glasgow School of Art fire.

And the Hugh Fraser Foundation has pledged £300,000 towards restoring the Charles Rennie Mackintosh building.

The theatre impresario said: "Since I became a theatre producer I have taken great pleasure from having a namesake as illustrious as CR Mackintosh.

"His legacy as an artist and designer and his unique style and invention lived on through the amazing building he designed for Glasgow School of Art.

"Successive generations of artists have been inspired and nurtured within its walls.

"It is hardly surprising the tragic news of the fire spread globally and we are all encouraged by the GSA's clear determination to restore the wonderful building."

Mr Mackintosh said his admiration for the Scottish architect and his personal passion for original architectural design made him even more pleased to be one of the first donors to the appeal.

He added: "The contribution from my foundation will, I hope, encourage others to follow suit and it comes with enormous gratitude and respect for what you have achieved and will continue to do."

The Hugh Fraser Foundation, which has been a long-term supporter of the art school, was the first to sign up to the appeal.

Chairman Dr Kenneth Chrystie said: "The trustees of the Hugh Fraser Foundation were clear we wished to make a major and public show of support for the school following the fire.

"We felt it was a great privilege to be able to support the GSA to begin the process of reconstruction and recovery.

"I am confident the fundraising appeal will attract worldwide support from those who share with us the desire to see the school not only recover but regain momentum towards its future success."

More than £750,000 has been raised by the appeal since it was launched last month.

Art school director Professor Tom Inns said: "We have been moved by the incredible generosity we have experienced since the fire."

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk