A THEATRE in the region, which almost closed seven years ago, is launching a £2m appeal to boost its future as box office takings show a dramatic increase.

The appeal is launched today by Harrogate Theatre, in North Yorkshire, after news that box office receipts have risen from 36 per cent to 75 per cent in the past six years.

Sweeping management changes and the theatre's determination to appeal to a wider public have led to the box office success.

Before its revival, the theatre was forced to go dark for several months.

But today, the Oxford Street playhouse, which is more than 100 years old, launches the Harrogate Theatre Forward Campaign to refurbish and renovate the Grade II-listed building.

Actor Edward Fox, whose family have strong links with Harrogate, where his great, great-grandfather Samson Fox was borough mayor, has been appointed campaign president.

Mr Fox is also backing the restoration campaign for the town's Grade Two star listed Royal Hall, closed because it needs repairs costing £14.5m.

Cash from Harrogate Theatre's appeal will be used to refurbish the auditorium and foyer, install a lift and upgrade technical equipment.

People can help the campaign by having a seat named after them or even the whole auditorium.

The theatre is already awarded grants by North Yorkshire County Council, Harrogate Borough Council and the Arts Council.