A landmark theatre is hoping an army of supporters will swing into action to raise money to cover the cost of ambitious plans to restore it as a living museum.

The Heritage Lottery Fund has already pledged more than £500,000 towards the rejuvenation of the Georgian Theatre Royal, at Richmond, North Yorkshire, which has most of its original features intact.

The money will be spent restoring the stage, dressing rooms and the auditorium, as well the reconstruction of the crumbling annex, added in the 1960s.

However, if the project is to go ahead, as much as £200,000 needs to be raised locally, and, although there are a number of money-spinning events planned for later this year, it is hoped a proportion of the cash required will come from a grand prize draw.

Darlington motor dealer, Sherwoods, has already donated a Vauxhall Corsa as the top prize, while Richmond artist, Mackenzie Thorpe, has given a print of one of his paintings to the list.

Dozens of other firms have also contributed - but it is hoped more will come forward, while the hunt is also on for volunteers willing to sell tickets.

"We have sent some to people registered as Friends of the Theatre, and have written to others asking if they would be willing to help," said appeal co-ordinator, Mac Bryant.

"However, the more people willing to sell tickets the better - and we would also welcome hearing from anyone prepared to donate a prize,'' he said.

Meanwhile, it was confirmed yesterday that the theatre is still negotiating with planners on blueprints for a new-look exterior.

It is hoped a glass-fronted extension, housing a coffee lounge and bar, as well as upgraded facilities for the disabled, will improve the Victoria Road facade.

The application was originally scheduled to go before Richmondshire District Council's planning committee this month.

However, with the design meeting a degree of resistance, the proposals have prompted more debate than anticipated, although architects and council planning officers are understood to be close to thrashing out a compromise