THE Conservative Party's former leader said he was hoping to become a more regular visitor to a historic theatre when he handed its management a cheque for £32,340 yesterday.

Talking to supporters of Richmond's Georgian Theatre Royal, William Hague admitted more of his time is his own since he relinquished the position of Leader of the Opposition.

And, as well as seeing more productions, he also pledged to help the theatre wherever possible, in Westminster, or with applications for financial aid.

"I would be happy to write to organisations on the theatre's behalf," he said. "I am a member of the Friends of the Theatre already and, with fewer responsibilities these days, I hope I'll be able to visit a little more."

The cheque from the Foundation for Sport and the Arts - worth just short of £50,000 when tax benefits are taken into account - will go towards the theatre's £1.1m restoration fund.

It is hoped that the money will cover the cost of internal refurbishment, better reflecting how the playhouse would have looked when 400 people crammed the auditorium when touring productions visited the town in the late 18th century.

An extension is to replace the annex that was built in the 1960s, allowing for a coffee lounge, bar and access for the disabled.

About £900,000 has already been raised - with a planned series of concerts and a draw to contribute to the remaining £200,000 required.

Yesterday, theatre management also confirmed plans for an application for European funding.

"We are holding a meeting to begin the process this weekend and hope we will be supported by both North Yorkshire County Council and Richmondshire District Council," said appeal spokesman Mac Bryant.

Read more about the theatre appeal here.