SEVENTY people, including some from North London and the Midlands, dropped in on the Regal’s open day on Saturday to find out more about the theatre, its history and volunteering opportunities.

Visitors were given guided tours around the theatre by Lewis Lintern, Fred Owen and Derek Webb to see behind the scenes and talk to some of the 200 volunteers who run the Regal.

Between them Lewis, Fred and Derek ran ten tours, with a total of 50 people enjoying small group tours lasting some 30 minutes. Visitors were fascinated to hear about the quirks and challenges of the Regal as an elderly building, but amazed too at the latest state-of-the-art equipment in use.

Other volunteers, including box office manager Sue Swan and bar manager Jenny Owen, provided refreshments throughout the day.

Regal Theatre committee member Monica Hartwell said: “The Regal always welcomes new volunteers, and as many as 16 people signed up for various volunteering roles, while other visitors took forms home to complete and return later.”

Anyone who was unable to go to the open day, but would like to know more about volunteering, may call in at or phone the box office on 01643 706430.