STAFF from Manchester Airport paid a visit to a Bolton theatre as part of a commitment to supporting the arts.

Manchester Airports Group (MAG) sponsored The Octagon Theatre for its 2013/14 season, as well as its final production of Love Story.

Since the arts sponsorship programme began, more than £8 million has been allocated to arts sponsorship projects across the country.

Sarah Brookes, head of public Affairs for MAG, who oversees the art sponsorship programme, said: “We’ve always looked to support arts organisations as part of our contribution to local communities here in Greater Manchester.

“Our approach has been to support a range of schemes — from high- profile organisations to smaller community initiatives — and to promote art forms to those who would not normally have access to them.

“We firmly believe that a healthy theatre and arts scene supports inbound tourism and investment and we are proud to support such a vibrant cultural community.”

She was joined by colleagues to watch a production of Love Story, staged at the theatre from June 19 until earlier this month.

Inspired by Erich Segal’s best-selling novel, it tells the romantic and tragic story of wealthy, privileged Harvard alumni Oliver Barrett IV and feisty, spirited Italian-American Jennifer Cavilleri, who fall head over heels in love.

Gemma Rooke, the Octagon’s campaigns manager, said: “Working with the business community allows us to bring in much-needed additional support for our programme of activities.

“We are proud that Manchester Airport Group recognises the Octagon as part of the thriving arts scene the North West delivers.

“Through their support, we are able to offer subsidised tickets to local families, community work throughout our town and projects that help develop and nurture young people.”

The theatre is set to apply for the next round of sponsorship later in the year.