A community theatre is celebrating after completing the initial stages of a major refurbishment project.

Eastern Daily Press: Contractors and supporters of The Seagull Theatre, in Pakefield, celebrate the completion of £29,000 renovations. Photo: Nick Butcher.Contractors and supporters of The Seagull Theatre, in Pakefield, celebrate the completion of £29,000 renovations. Photo: Nick Butcher. (Image: Archant © 2017)

The Seagull Theatre, in Morton Road, Pakefield, raised £29,000 through its 'Raising the Roof' campaign.

New double glazed windows and doors have been fitted, transforming the front of the theatre, while vital repairs to the roof have also been made.

Ian Fosten, chairman of directors, said: 'When you see it like this you forget what it used to be like.

Eastern Daily Press: The Theatre previously had boarded-up windows and leaks in the roof. Photo: Nick ButcherThe Theatre previously had boarded-up windows and leaks in the roof. Photo: Nick Butcher (Image: ©archant2016)

'The theatre is an amazing community resource. There are individuals, particularly younger people and those that are unemployed whose lives are turned around here.

'By giving our volunteers real things to do they acquire skills, find confidence and self-esteem and become more equipped to flourish in later life.'

Mr Fosten added: 'We have always said this is a theatre in the community; for the community, and the money raised affirms our presence.

Eastern Daily Press: Contractors and supporters of The Seagull Theatre, in Pakefield, celebrate the completion of £29,000 renovations. Photo: Nick Butcher.Contractors and supporters of The Seagull Theatre, in Pakefield, celebrate the completion of £29,000 renovations. Photo: Nick Butcher. (Image: Archant © 2017)

'It confirms that we are making a real difference to individual's lives and that excites me.'

The 'Raise the Roof' campaign was launched in August last year after concerns were raised over the theatre's leaking and crumbling roof.

A target of £40,000 was set and while fundraising is still ongoing the theatre has been able to make the changes necessary to halt the site's deteriorating condition.

The new windows are more energy efficient and will save on the overall running and heating costs at the theatre.

Directors and staff at the Seagull Theatre expressed their gratitude to all those who have already donated as the new look theatre was unveiled on Tuesday, December 5.

Manager Karen Read labelled the public's help 'amazing' and said: 'There is just something magical about this building.

'It's the most nurturing building in Lowestoft – especially when you hear the amount of people who refer to the Seagull as their second home.'

She added: 'I just want to thank all the volunteers who are tirelessly giving hours of their time to help us continue all our good work.'

Work on the theatre was carried out by Froggy Hire, Polycastle and Great Yarmouth Glass.

For more information on how you can help The Seagull reach its goal of £40,000 call 01502 589 726.