There's a Brand new name at The Courtyard

Ms Brand, who is famous for her sharp wit and cutting tongue, has agreed to become an honorary patron of The Courtyard, Herefordshire's Centre for the Arts, as it nears its sixth anniversary.

She is sure to help attract extra visitors to The Courtyard as her witty discussions on "taboo" subjects such as periods, gluttony, smoking, boozing, male inadequacy and male immaturity, have helped to make her a household name.

The Courtyard, opened in September 1998, has become a major resource within the county, providing opportunities for more than one million people in its first five years to actively take part or simply watch and enjoy a wide variety of arts activities.

The Courtyard is also recognised nationally for the quality of its own productions, which have attracted substantial amounts of additional funding.

Ms Brand, who has just had a baby, said she was delighted to act as honorary patron - and urged visitors to flock to The Courtyard to sample the cake.

"I'm very happy to become honorary patron of The Courtyard and am pleased to be able to support the very valuable work being undertaken by The Courtyard locally and also at a national level," she said.

"It's important for Herefordshire to have such an exciting and vibrant centre for the arts like this and I hope to be able to help promote this whenever I have the opportunity.

"I have also heard that the caf sells fantastic cake! Ideal for anyone visiting to get stuck into."

The Courtyard's chief executive, Martyn Green, said: "I'm delighted at Jo's decision to become involved with us in such a high-profile way.

"It's the beginning of an exciting era for us here and I think Jo's enormous popularity will help The Courtyard to be perceived as a place for everyone.

"Jo's support of The Courtyard will help us continue to raise the profile of the organisation and much of the work that we do, particularly with young people.

"We really look forward to welcoming her here whenever she is able to visit."