BOSSES at one of Glasgow's top culture venues have thanked the public for their patience during an extended closure.

The Centre for Contemporary Arts (CCA) was forced to shut following the Glasgow School of Art fire on June 15.

A series of delays outwith CCA control seriously impacted the many groups using the Sauchiehall Street venue.

But finally the much-loved art space will reopen on Saturday with a packed programme of events.

Ailsa Nazir, Head of Operations at CCA ,said: "We're so happy to be able to open the doors to the public again this weekend.

"We've got a fantastic programme of exhibitions, gigs, films, workshops and festivals lined up over the next few months.

"We've been overwhelmed by the huge support we've had throughout this - thank you to everyone for their support."

Saramago Cafe Bar, the Welcome Home shop and Aye-Aye Books will open on Saturday at noon.

Jonas Staal's The Scottish-European Parliament will reopen on Tuesday, October 23, when the events programme also starts again with Iglooghost.

Organisers said the programme for the coming week also includes an exhibition from Kari Stewart and Shireen Taylor, gigs with Teenage Fanclub, and Rachel Sermanni, and films from Matchbox Cineclub and Screening Irish History.

There will also be a poetry night from Seeds of Thought and dance workshops from Contact Jam and 3 Elements of Difference.

Staff had hoped work on CCA would be completed by October 14 to allow businesses, including the venue, to return to normal.

But bad weather delayed work to stabilise the fire-ravaged Mackintosh Building.

Cranes were unable to work during the recent bout of high winds which has set plans back by two days.

Bagel Mania, News 4U and Paint & Mortar are among those still locked out but the continuing work on the west gable of the Mack.

For more information about what's on at CCA in the coming weeks see: www.cca-glasgow.com/programme