THE FUTURE of Milford Haven's Torch Theatre has been secured, thanks to a new funding package from the Arts Council for Wales.

The funding agreement means that the Torch's £5.2 million redevelopment will definitely go ahead, with work scheduled to begin in April.

There are no champagne corks popping quite yet though, Peter Doran, the Torch's Artistic Director told the Mercury, as the general feeling at the theatre was one of relief rather than excitement.

"It's been such a roller coaster ride with many highs but also a great number of lows and don't forget this has been going on for three years! We're all a bit shattered I think - once the builders arrive on site I think the reality will hit home and we'll no doubt get excited once again.

"The nice thing for me is that I can go into rehearsals for the new show without money problems hanging over me - I can just get on with the job that I came here to do - create drama!

"We are extremely grateful to the Arts Council of Wales. The redevelopment of the Torch Theatre is a vital part of the regeneration of Milford Haven. The package that has been put together means that we now know that the project is definitely going ahead.

"Together with the extra funding we are receiving from the Welsh Assembly Government via the Arts Outside Cardiff programme for our artistic work, the whole package should allow the Torch to thrive in the future."

Mr Doran added: "We estimate that we shall still need something in the region of £450,000 to reach our final goal and although this is still a considerable amount of money, it is a relatively small percentage of our original target of £5.2 million and I am confident that we can raise it. Well, we've managed £4.8 million so why shouldn't we be confident?

"But the important thing is that we will go ahead with the project whatever - if we fail to get the rest it will mean that we will cut back on one aspect of the development rather than it not go ahead.

"I'm sure that there is a knight in shining armour out there who will come in and save the day."

Peter Tyndall, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales said: "We are delighted that we have been able to work with Peter and his team at the Torch to put this package together. The Torch is a crucial part of the arts infrastructure of Wales and provides wonderful drama for the people of Pembrokeshire as well as touring product throughout the country. This project will not only give first class theatre the home it deserves, but also provide much better facilities for audiences, and enhance local jobs, tourism and the built environment."