Gathering pictures and anecdotes from years passed is difficult work, and that's why Theatre Royal need your help.

Members of the Workington theatre are creating a limited-edition book of the establishment's history, after refurbishments uncovered a number of pictures and materials from plays performed there during the last century.

With such a great catalogue of the theatre's history, dating from when Playgoers took over the building in 1935, theatre archivist Jenni Rushton thought it was the perfect opportunity to create a book all about her beloved creative space.

The text will cover everything from the building's history, to Playgoers' costumes, props and most favoured performances.

And the team are hoping to collect buckets of memories and anecdotes to add to their fount of knowledge on the theatre, and need the Workington community to share stories, names and faces with them.

"It's interesting to be going back to Playgoers' roots," Jenni said. "It was a group of incredible people who set up the theatre group – they raised £40 and started doing the theatre up, and now we have the most fantastic theatre.

"We want to put this book together to look at how they got started, and talk about Playgoers' history, plays, actors, directors, everything!"

Jenni and theatre team member Pat Brinicombe have recruited Cockermouth graphic designer Alexandra Boustead and Brigham copywriter Sarah McNeill to create the book, which will begin production as soon as funds have been secured.

They are hoping to publish the initial 100 copies of the book in 2020, in time for Playgoers' 85th birthday, and will hand them out to members old and new.

Pat is excited to spread the theatre's history, while also hearing interesting tales from those who spent their days there.

She said: "People mention to us that their grandparents were involved in the plays, or that they worked in the shops next door, and we want to hear more about it!"

To share your stories of Playgoers and Theatre Royal from the twentieth century, email the team at info@theatre-royal-workington.co.uk.