AN HISTORIC theatre undergoing a £1.5m restoration opens its doors on Saturday to people who would like to be part of its future.

Richmond's Georgian Theatre Royal has not enjoyed the best of luck since it closed for refurbishment at the end of last year.

First builders discovered more work was necessary on the foundations than had been anticipated - driving up the cost of the project.

While fundraisers set about finding the extra £200,000, the Harrogate-based builders, who won the contract for the project, were taken over forcing another delay while the theatre's supporters found an alternative firm.

The opening date - originally pencilled in for January this year - now seems set for September.

Management are hoping a recruitment day on Saturday will net the most valuable resource - the people to help to run the new theatre once it is fully operational.

The work has included an extension for a new entrance, cloakroom, coffee lounge and bar.

Box office assistants, front-of-house staff, assistants for the bar, caf and shop, tour guides, marketing assistants, stage, sound and lighting crew and administration and research assistants are all required - mainly on a voluntary basis.

Acting administrator James Allenby said: "Volunteering in this special theatre has, and will continue to be, an exciting and fulfiling experience.

"Volunteers need only commit to a few hours a week and full training will be given for all positions.

"For those seeking professional employment in theatre, this is a useful way to gain skills and references. For youngsters it can help with awards."

The recruitment open day on Saturday starts at 10am until 4pm.

For more details about the event or about voluntary work telephone organisers on (01748) 823710.