A THEATRE is undergoing a makeover in order to preserve it for generations to come.

A two-month programme of improvements has begun at Whitefield Garrick to update the seating, lighting and equipment.

Whitefield Garrick is one of the main theatres in Bury, which is also home to PADOS Studio Theatre in Prestwich, the Theatre Royal in Ramsbottom, and The Met in the town centre.

Peter Hill, a trustee of Whitefield Garrick Society, said: "The auditorium was built on a very tight budget 14 years ago and needs refreshing and technically updating.

"Having been refused a modest Lottery grant this spring, the full scheme will be completed as self funding becomes available."

On Sunday, May 20, volunteers began cleaning and painting the theatre in Bank Street.

Over the summer break, the 87 seats which were first installed 14 years ago are being ripped out by contractors and replaced with updated chairs and modern upholstery to ensure a more comfortable experience for audiences.

The stage lamps, some of which are more than 40 years old, are being pulled out to make way for new and improved modern lighting.

Whitefield Garrick Society was born out of the Second World War, when the Home Guard staged a production of Journey's End by R. C. Sherriff.

Plays were presented in the All Saints Church Hall until 1975 when the rehearsal room in Bank Street was transformed into a tiny theatre.

In 2002, the current site was purchased and the existing theatre was constructed. A new foyer, bar, kitchen and store were added between 2014 and 2016.

Now further works are planned, including repairs to the ceiling, replacing the carpet nosings, paintings the ceiling and walls, and assembling new scenery.

Work will be ongoing throughout the summer, with a planned completion date of July 1.

Each year, five plays give nine performances each at the theatre, plus guest productions.

Rehearsals for the new season's production of 'Dandy Dick' will begin in August when the work is finished.

The play, written by Arthur Wing Pinero and adapted by Christopher Luscombe, will appear on stage between September 22 and 29.