COUNCIL chiefs have moved to reassure volunteers that services will not be reduced at Darwen Library Theatre.

The volunteers had raised concerns amid fears that manager Steve Burch was being redeployed to Blackburn.

The Knott Street venue, which opened in its current form in January 2000, currently employs Mr Burch full-time, and he is backed by the team of volunteers.

Blackburn with Darwen Council said that although a staff review was under way, it was too early to say if there would be changes to staffing at the theatre.

Steve Rigby, director of culture, leisure and sport said: “We would not comment on individual members of staff and it is too early in the review to discuss whether or not there will be changes at the theatre.

“However, we can assure theatre users and volunteers that the level of service provided by the council will not be reduced.

“I’d like to thank the volunteers who work tirelessly to help with the smooth running of the venue.”

But volunteer Don Banks said the review had left people worried.

He said: “Volunteers cannot take responsibility for more than 200 members of public without a manager.

“We want to know what the future is for Darwen Library Theatre.

"We’ve heard that due to cost-cutting at Blackburn with Darwen Council, the manager is being moved to King George’s Hall and we’re going to be left with just volunteers.

“And even if he took on a dual role with both venues, it wouldn’t work.

“If there’s no manager, then there’ll be no volunteers.

“Darwen Library Theatre is one of the best venues we have in this town, and the only picture place we have. It’s vital that it stays open.”