A theatre in Wigton has had its window repaired ahead of one of its biggest months yet after it was subject to a 'mindless' act of vandalism. 

The John Peel Theatre in Wigton saw a bottle flung at the newly painted doors, smashing a pane of glass just before the New Year. 

The damage, amounting to around £500, was one the theatre, which is run entirely by volunteers, couldn't afford. 

The community, however, stepped up in a big way. 

As well as a number of individuals, Solway Health & Safety Training Ltd, Parakeet Print, Redmayne1860, Christopher Scott, R J Harrison and Sons, and Rocket Theatre Group all contributed to a fundraiser to repair the damage. 

Among the local heroes is David Cockbain from Premier Glass Wigton Ltd, who not only installed the original doors but has fitted the new window free of charge. 

"The cost was amazingly covered by donations," said the theatre's co-chair, Kate Jenson. 

"We can’t thank you all enough.

"Any excess will be used to install CCTV cameras. A lot of people stepped up which was incredible, including David from Premier Glass who fitted the glass for free. 

"David has fixed it in time for our panto coming up and our next folk night. We've got the venue back ready," she said. 

The theatre has highlighted the ongoing need for donations to sustain and develop the venue further.

"We will always accept donations from anybody who wants to support the theatre. Everything we make from concerts and shows gets ploughed back into the theatre, it helps with emergency repairs and bills.

"In the long-term, we're looking to develop the theatre. We're trying to make it the best community theatre possible, so we're always happy with donations coming in," Kate said. 

Next on the bill at the theatre is the Irish folk group The Haar on February 4. 

Following on from this, the venue will be bringing its 'best' pantomime yet, Robin Hood, which has already sold out. 

To stay in the loop on events at the John Peel Theatre, you can visit www.wigtontheatre.org/upcoming.html

Donations to the theatre can be made via their Facebook page.