A COUNCIL grant has helped the Marine Theatre carry out essential maintenance work.
LymeArts Community Trust, which runs the theatre, was awarded £4,500 to install a new boiler, replace roof tiles and associated scaffolding, and to improve the cellar arrangements.
The theatre was previously without heating after the original 1970s boiler failed, urgently requiring a new one.
There were several slipped tiles on the roof that were causing a leak into the theatre office, a cost that was increased due to the need for scaffolding and licences.
The theatre also wanted to relocate the keg store to the ground level, to avoid staff having to carry heavy kegs up and down stairs.
Theatre director Gabby Rabbitts said: “As ever, the Marine Theatre is incredibly grateful for the support of Lyme Regis Town Council. As a charity, we work hard to pay for all the theatre's running costs ourselves.
“However, as one of the historic landmarks of the town, as with all old buildings, there is a constant need for maintenance.
“The financial support from the town council has helped to protect the very fabric of the theatre, with an energy efficient boiler and urgent repairs to the roof.
“We also plan to move our cellar to a ground-floor level. Our audience can now sit back in comfort to enjoy many more wonderful performances in the warm and dry.”