POOLE'S Lighthouse Theatre has just become even more accessible – following the installation of new automatic doors.

The new doors, installed thanks to a £4,000 grant from the Theatres Trust, make it much easier for people in wheelchairs and mobility issues to use the centre.

Lighthouse chief executive Elspeth McBain said: "This is a vital improvement for which Lighthouse is extremely grateful to the Theatres Trust.

"People who need to use the lift will be able to more easily navigate the foyer at busy times and the new entrance will also provide better access from the car park.”

The push-button doors opposite the lift improve access and mean those who need the lift no longer have to cross a crowded foyer at busy times.

Theatres Trust is the national advisory public body for theatres and champions the future of live performance by protecting and supporting theatre buildings that meet the needs of their communities.

Launched in 2012, its UK Small Theatres Grants Scheme awards grants of up to £5,000 to theatres to address urgent building works and improvements.

It receives support from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation and Charles Michael Holloway Charitable Trust.

Sarah Miller, director at Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, said: "I am thrilled to see Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation funding targeted in the support of these regional theatres under the direction of Theatres Trust expertise.

"Theatres are so often the hubs of their communities and they should be cherished."

Meanwhile, Theatres Trust director Jon Morgan said: “I’m proud that our UK Theatres Small Grants Scheme can help theatres make significant improvements to secure and improve their buildings’ fabric and provide a more accessible and welcoming customer experience for their audiences."