A THEATRE group is celebrating after securing the long term lease of a former school as a base for their live performances.

Earthbeat, a theatre group for adults with learning disabilities, has been campaigning for months to find a new home after their bid to take over the former Guisborough register office was knocked back by the local authority.

Now the group has reached an agreement with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council which has granted them a 50 year lease on the old Saltburn School - which will also become a valuable community resource.

The group had been regular users of the theatre in Saltburn for rehearsals but the space is unsuitable for a wider range of activities.

But having a home of their own means group members will be able to have their own dedicated space with a choice of rooms for acting, music, crafts and costumes.

Earthbeat’s owner, Tony Galuidi said: “The basic idea is that, primarily, the school will provide a base for the Earthbeat Theatre Company. It will also provide a resource for the community.

“Many of the classrooms will be available to rent out to social enterprises, individuals and small businesses. Other rooms, such as the dance studio, meeting room and auditorium, will be available to hire for weekend and evening classes.

“We would also like to express our gratitude to all those people who have supported us to reach this point. Without your fantastic support we might never have realised our dream. Thank you.”

The group, which had been at loggerheads with the council when it sold the former Register Office to Wetherspoons to be turned into a pub, will now begin work renovating the old school, since the Saltburn Community and Arts Association left the building in January.

Now they have their new home, the group is asking for help from anyone who could spare a few hours to paint walls and windows, varnish floors and help with the general clean-up.

They are also planning to hold a public meeting in the school on Wednesday, October 8 from 7pm to set out their vision for the building.

Mr Galudi says that everyone from the town and the wider area is welcome.

Anyone interested in helping out Earthbeat can contact them by email at earthbeat@talktalk.net