THE Torch will be burning brightly for years to come after being given a donation of £50,000 by Milford Haven Port Authority (MHPA).

The money - given as part of the MHPA's 50th anniversary celebration - will be used to sponsor the new studio theatre for five years.

Artistic director Peter Doran said: "I am delighted that Milford Haven Port Authority has become sponsor of our new studio space; we've always had a great relationship with MHPA, and it is an organisation that is as committed to the regeneration of Milford Haven as we are.

"Its support allows us to use the studio in a variety of ways - as a cinema and live theatre venue, but more importantly as a community space, where we'll be holding regular dance classes and drama workshops as well as allowing the community to use it for whatever activity they wish - it really is a most exciting space and one that I can't wait to start using."

The 102-seat studio will be used for the first time on March 14 when the MHPA hosts a community educational event based on their recent work with the Darwin Centre and schools.

MHPA chief executive Ted Sangster said: "The Torch is an iconic building and institution that the people of Milford and Pembrokeshire feel very proud of.

It is a wonderful resource, not only for those who enjoy the theatre, but also in terms of education, employment and the people it brings in to the area.

"We bring people into the town by sea and the Torch attracts people from across the land.

We are delighted to be supporting the launch of the new Torch, particularly as it has just celebrated its 30th anniversary."

This cash boost comes just months after the Mercury fought a successful campaign to stop Milford Haven Town Council halving its funding and putting a £120,000 Arts Council of Wales grant at risk.

Following the Mercury campaign the council announced plans to increase its funding for the theatre.

l To find out more about the Milford Haven Port Authority's 50th anniversary turn to page 7.