EAST Lancashire residents are being asked to play a part in the future of an amateur dramatic society.

The Summerseat Players need to raise more funds towards their £400,000 theatre redevelopment currently under way.

The amateurs have already raised half the money, helped by a £25,000 Arts Council Lottery Grant.

Now they are asking people to help raise the rest of the cash by making a donation and becoming a ‘Summerseat Star’.

The society’s priority is to develop its youth theatre and to make the theatre more accessible to the community. Founder director, Geoff Sword, said: “The future of live amateur theatre must lie with youngsters. We have been terrifically successful in the past but now we have to bring on new members, young or old.

“We also want to be able to hire out the theatre to community groups to stage their own productions or use it for workshops, seminars and conferences. This will benefit both theatre and town.”

This year, the group won five Greater Manchester Drama Federation Awards, including Best Production for The Crucible.

The redevelopment has already added a new mezzanine floor to the Theatre Royal, in Smithy Street, Ramsbottom.

The ground floor bar and lounge have also been revamped to host cabaret-style entertainment.

Work is due to be completed this week, which coincides with the first performance of the new season on October 16.

l—To become a Summerseat star, donating £50 to £74 to the Summerseat Players will make you a bronze star; £75 to £149 a silver star; and £150 or more a gold star.

Anyone wishing to offer their services by working at the theatre or joining the society can call Alan Rodgers on 01706 823975.