A THRIVING theatre and arts centre in a North Yorkshire market town is set for a big expansion.

Martin Van Der Weyer, director of the Old Meeting House, in Helmsley, said the facility is embarking on a scheme to cope with its growing popularity.

The scheme, which is likely to cost well into six figures, will see a rehearsal room created and more stage space.

The cinema will also be able to open more frequently by using an auditorium for screening as well as theatre productions.

The Stage Bar will be expanded to include a centre for dance tuition.

"We have 170 youngsters currently using it, especially for ballet, and on Saturdays and Mondays it is in use all day," said Mr Van Der Weyer.

"We have a lot of children's activities at the Old Meeting House and, as a result, there is a lot of pressure on the space for the many events which are held there."

The development will see an extension to the east end of the centre built over half the existing garden, a larger kitchen created, and space for a lift.

An earlier scheme was withdrawn because of complications concerning the owners of neighbouring property and archaeology on the site.

The centre was almost destroyed in a massive fire several years ago, but was rebuilt in 2000.

Mr Van Der Weyer said bids would be made for grant aid from the Arts Council and other organisations.