TOWNSFOLK need to act now if they want to help secure the future of the Norbury Theatre, which could be in danger in only five years - according to the venue's chairman.

After recently being awarded a huge boost for the future in the form of a £3,000 grant from Wychavon District Council, theatre chairman David Goode has spoken to the Advertiser about what needs to be done if the Norbury is to continue playing a key role in the town.

The Friar Street venue's lease runs out in only five years time and there is a real fear that the landowner will not want to renew it.

"It is important that people act now to help the Norbury and show that it is important to them. It will be too late if people wait five years before realising that we could lose the theatre," said David. "We need to show that the venue is appealing and can be used for a variety and range of events and occasions," he added.

The town theatre, which plays host to a wide range of drama and comedy performances and cinema showings throughout the year, has drawn up a five year plan to help secure what is currently an uncertain future.

"The recent cash grant will go towards publicising what we have going on and will help contribute to our five year plan," said David.

"We need to show that the Norbury can be used for many reasons and give ourselves a broader range of options for when the five year lease is up.

"We have the option to purchase the lease, but that would cost more money than the group currently has."

The grant will help the Friar Street venue continue to offer its services and new productions for theatre-lovers.

Cinema showings are proving very popular, according to David, and a lot of effort will be put into marketing other new ventures as part of the plan.

The venue has previously struggled and organisers have warned townsfolk that they must use the theatre or lose it. However, with the lease deadline approaching, it still needs as much support as possible to keep going.

David added: "The Norbury is unique and is a totally amateur and voluntary organisation. We need a long term strategy to be able to make the most of the venue. We need to show what the theatre is capable of and the support it has before the lease runs out."