VOLUNTEERS who have been applying for grants in the hope of giving a theatre a facelift are carrying out a 24-hour makeover.

Wicked Cinema volunteers, based at the Rhyl Little Theatre, have succeeded in obtaining funding to continue plans to update the venue.

Last year volunteers decorated the box office and planted the garden.

This year their target has been the toilets, foyer and heating.

Rhiannon Hughes, cinema volunteer, said: "When we had the idea three years ago to set up a Pop Up cinema, which would be affordable for families and screen films not shown in mainstream cinemas, we were very grateful to the Rhyl Little Theatre and their volunteers Gwynne, Bob and Neil for giving us a home and making this possible.

"We now want to give something back and have been committed to trying to help improve the venue.

"So far we have received £1,700 from Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council Youth Grant and have another £2,500 bid in for heating for the auditorium."

Andrew Virgo, technical manager for Wicked, said: "As a young person leaving school, the theatre has provided a valuable opportunity for me to learn locally all aspects of technical theatre.

"This has helped me set up my own business. The theatre does now need more updated equipment and I want to help in any way that I can."

The theatre is looking for people to help with the 24-hour makeover of the toilets and foyer on Saturday, March 7 and Sunday, March 8.

People are needed to help paint, paper and clean.

The group is also appealing for tradesmen who would like to offer their services for a few hours.

Rhiannon added: "The theatre has given so much to the community over the years. It is now time for the community to help bring the theatre back to its former glory."

Email rhiannon52@mail.com