NORTHCOTT THEATRE SAVED?

12.00.00pm GMT Sun 27th Jan 2008

Reacting to comments in the Sunday Times that pressure from leading actors had succeeded in persuading the Arts Council to change its funding plans and save various institutions, including Exeter's Northcott Theatre, Exeter Liberal Democrat PPC Graham Oakes said:

"If this is true, it is excellent news. The community has rallied round the theatre and not only shown massive support for our theatre but also created an incredible opportunity for the Northcott to build on the support."

"People from across the City and beyond have shown their support for the Northcott. The people I met during the protest in Bedford Square all had different reasons why they wanted to keep the Northcott alive, but it was clear to me that the value of the Northcott is far greater than the money the Arts Council are trying to save."

"If the Northcott has been saved this is good news for Exeter and the rest of Devon ."