AMATEUR theatre societies in Bolton are being invited to join a discussion about what they would like to see in a community theatre space.

Bolton group ACT (Amateur Community Theatre) hopes to use the information to help apply for funding towards the project, which aims to provide a theatre space open day and night as a rehearsal, performance and meeting place.

The group has been battling for about 15 years to find a building in Bolton town centre that would be fit for purpose, but are yet to find one suitable.

Treasurer David Morlidge, aged 73, said: "It has been difficult to find the right place — but certainly isn't for want of trying.

"We need as many people involved as possible with this. It has got to be used 24:7, not just a few evenings a week for practices. It needs everybody coming together to make it work, but also the flexibility with regards to booking time to use it. It is about finding a performance venue for all.

"I have sent out a questionnaire to all societies and groups in the Bolton area about what they would like to see in the theatre, which would give us valuable information about what is needed to make the venue accessible for all. It is basically a feasibility study to see what societies want and what they don't want.

"In the long run we would like to try to get funding help, so we need the information from groups to build an idea of what we need before we can apply for grants. We are also in the process of making ACT into a charitable company which will give us more flexibility to raise funds.

"Hopefully the information we get from the questionnaire will bring the project a new beginning."

Since the closure of the town's beloved Theatre Church — which was used by groups for more than 40 years before it was demolished last year to make way for new houses — and the refurbishment of the Albert Halls, some BATS (Bolton Amateur Theatre Society) groups have been left without a permanent performance space.

Paul Cohen, BATS chairman, says that the society would benefit greatly from a community space.

He said: "It's a great idea and something that Bolton desperately needs.

"As well as societies like BATS, it is also important to get a space for the wider community."

Any societies or groups who are yet to receive a questionnaire are advised to contact Ros Bell on 01204 696381.