A BRAND new entertainment venue in Wyre has been unveiled with a glittering gala opening show.

Thornton Lecture Hall was given a £350,000 facelift by Wyre Borough Council and has now been re-named Thornton Little Theatre.

The building can still be used for many other purposes which are not theatrical but it has been equipped with tiered seating which can be folded away and the latest in stage lighting and sound.

Councillor Jim Lawrenson, Cultural Portfolio Holder and Deputy Leader of the Council said: "It is a facility we can all be proud of but it is a case of use it or lose it. We need the support of the public to make it work."

The gala opening on the night of Thursday, November 27 was attended by the Mayor of Wyre Councillor Stan Leadbetter and the Mayoress, Mrs Joanne Leadbetter along with visiting civic dignitaries from other authorities. Star of the show was comedian Frank Carson who topped a variety bill produced by John Shedwick.

Councillor Lawrenson said: "It was a superb night and now Thornton Little Theatre is set for a new career as a community facility in Wyre."

For information, bookings and tickets ring 01253 770547.