A new director will soon be pulling the strings at one of the city's theatres.

Joy Haynes has been appointed Norwich Puppet Theatre's director, and will work to position it as a unique centre of excellence for puppetry that creates and tours dynamic new productions and is an inspirational focus for professional development and training.

She said: 'I have had a long association with Norwich Puppet Theatre spanning the last 21 years, during which time the theatre has provided me with invaluable focus and inspiration for my work. I feel privileged to have been offered leadership of the company that has been so influential in the development and success of my career.

'This post offers me a unique opportunity to use my many years of experience creating, directing and touring original puppet theatre combined with my strong personal commitment to the promotion and development of the art-form.'

The Monument Trust is giving NPT �150,000 in funding over three years, and part of this will fund the director's role.

This is welcome news to NPT which has fought hard to keep the theatre going since losing Arts Council funding, something about which the Evening News campaigned. Nic Hopkins, chairman of trustees, said: 'Joy will bring us terrific energy and the right skills to develop and deliver our vision and strategy for a sustainable arts business with a world-class creative programme that attracts and develops the best puppetry and related arts talent.'

Joy started her company Banyan Theatre in 1993 and has built a highly regarded reputation as a designer, maker and performer, touring shows in the UK and abroad. She has a great deal of experience in developing educational programmes.

Is your arts organisation celebrating a funding boost? Call Emma Knights on 01603 772428 or email emma.knights@archant.co.uk