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The Duchess Theatre at The Chatsworth Centre in Long Eaton is to reopen after a long period of refurbishment following a fire in 2003. NatWest, its banking partner, has provided funding to support the rebuild.

Fundraising has also been made through the theatre and its supporters.

The centre is based on the site of the previously redundant and derelict Methodist Church and school hall in West Gate, Long Eaton. The centre had been the focal point for arts in the district until the fire, which destroyed the auditorium and backstage area.

The main auditorium, which is a 180 seater venue, will have a new entrance, bar and coffee area.

The adjoining John Barker studio is now a multi-purpose facility that can be used as a studio theatre, conference /meeting room or as a rehearsal space. A number of shows are planned and the theatre is largely booked up until Christmas.

The chairman of the Long Eaton and District Arts Council said: “This re-opening has been a long time coming. It has been seven long years since the fire destroyed the theatre.

"There is so much heritage and goodwill in the centre that is has been worth every minute of work to rebuild it. It will play a large part in the cultural heartbeat of the town and we are grateful to everyone who has contributed and supporting the rebuilding project.”

Mark Jones, relationship manager, business & commercial banking at NatWest, added: “This is a project at the heart of the Long Eaton and as a local resident I understand its importance. It is great to have the facility back, which really adds to the fabric of life in Long Eaton.

"Congratulations go to all the volunteers of the Chatsworth Centre without whose efforts and dedication this project would not have been possible”