LONG-AWAITED work to transform facilities on offer at Congleton's Daneside Theatre could start early in the new year.

The news came this week as National Lottery bosses gave the project a huge shot in the arm with a £56,000 grant.

Daneside Theatre is used by numerous local theatre and operatic companies, but has no rehearsal rooms.

That headache is due to be cured with a £360,000 extension, which will include two large rehearsal and meeting rooms.

The three-storey building would also feature an area to store scenery.

The lottery grant has been awarded via the Arts Council, and follows other grants totalling £63,000, the latest £25,000 from the Garfield Weston Foundation.

Daneside Theatre Trust is spearheading the project, and is now £72,000 short of its target, which it is hoping to hit with extra grants and financial support from local businesses.

"Once complete the extension will be available for hire by community groups at a small rental charge," said Paul Drage, technical manager for the theatre.

"We are very grateful to the National Lottery and Arts Council for this grant, which is a major part of the funds we need.

"However we are still short of a significant amount, and hope we will be able to raise further funds from local businesses.

"If all goes well we hope to start building work early next year."

The trust has also won grants from Waste Recycling Environmental, Congleton Inclosure Trust, Congleton Borough Council and Congleton Town Council.

It is inviting groups to come forward interested in one off and regular hires at the 300-seat theatre, in particular during the day.

The Daneside is used by numerous groups, including Congleton Players, Congleton Amateur and Trinity Operatic Societies, Congleton Pantomime, Congleton Scouts and Guides, dance and ballet schools and youth theatres.

Businesses or individuals who would like to support the extension project please ring Mr Drage on 270217.