A THEATRE club is delighted to have a new pair of doors after a lengthy fundraising drive.

Wigton Theatre Club, Station Road, Wigton, last week had the doors fitted, thanks to contributions from Allerdale Council and the Cumbria Community Foundation.

Over the years, the old chapel, which is now the home of the theatre club, has undergone many changes.

Connie Jensen, chairwoman of the club, said: “The earliest photo we have of the interior shows a harvest festival display in 1911.

“It was then a Salvation Army chapel. It was bought by Redmayne’s which had its factory next door, and we believe it was used as an overspill machine shop during World War One.”

It is also believed that the building was built in1884, and was used to billet soldiers during World Word Two. In 1964 Redmayne’s helped Wigton Theatre Club by renting them the building and converting it into a theatre.

Michael Lynch of Station Joinery with David Cockbain of Premier Glass fitted the new doors last week and this is just one of the many renovations planned.

Connie continued: “Our new doors, which make the theatre look more open and inviting are the first step in the latest series of improvements.

“We are grateful to Allerdale, Cumbria Community Foundation and other funders, as well as our generous friends and audience for their support, have enabled us to fix our roof, improve our seating and we hope, refurbish our toilets.”

Cumbria Community Foundation is urging more community groups to apply for funding through the Joyce Wilkinson Trust Fund.

The funding is available to community groups in the former county of Cumberland, especially those in the Rosley and Westward, Caldbeck, Wigton and Aspatria parishes.

Last month, £42,764 was awarded to 10 different community organisations, including Aspatria Community Centre, Wigton Theatre Group, Northern Fells Group and Rosley Church. Wigton Theatre group, received a grant for £9,000.

Dennis Graham, chairman said: “We are extremely grateful for the grant from the Joyce Wilkinson Trust as we believe this will encourage match funding from other organisations as well as improve our facilities. Other aspects of the project include fitting new front doors, refurbishing the roof and renewing the toilet facilities.”