The outgoing general manager of one of Norwich's theatres has spoken of the 'great journey' he has been on with the city venue.

Les Hoare, who previously managed the Fisher Theatre in Bungay, left the Maddermarket Theatre on Friday after being the general manager there for two years, and he said he was pleased he was able to secure next Christmas' festive show - The Borrowers - shortly before his departure.

'It's been a great journey. It has been fascinating,' said Mr Hoare about his time at the Maddermarket.

'I am also really chuffed that we have got The Borrowers for the 2014 Christmas show. That was not an easy one to get. 'I think it will be a fabulous show and they will do a great job.'

Mr Hoare, who lives in Honing and now hopes to spend more time with his family, also paid tribute to the Maddermarket team.

'They are a thoroughly professional and totally dedicated team. Their creative talent is inspiring and their humour is infectious,' he said

'As we slowly emerge from a recession that has made it so tough for theatres to survive I know the Maddermarket is well placed for the future and I will leave wishing all my friends at the Maddermarket every success.'

The Borrowers, written by Mary Norton in 1952 and adapted for the stage by Charles Way, is the story of the tiny Clock family, who live beneath the floorboards of a large Victorian house and borrow from the big people - the human beans - above to survive.

Peter Sowerbutts - who directed the Maddermarket's last two Christmas shows The Snow Queen and The Railway Children - will direct The Borrowers.

Tickets are already on sale for the show and details of open auditions will be announced within the next few weeks.

The Borrowers will run from December 19 until January 3 at the Maddermarket Theatre.

For more information about this and other shows visit www.maddermarket.co,uk or call the Maddermarket Theatre box office on 01603 620917.

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Email arts correspondent Emma Knights at emma.knights@archant.co.uk