Staff and volunteers at Sheringham Little Theatre have double the reason to celebrate this month, after the venue's 50th annual summer repertory season took �12,000 more than forecast and a �35,000 'Stars' refurbishment appeal reached more than a third of the way to its target.

Theatre director Debbie Thompson said the anniversary season had seen audience figures up by nearly 200 on last year, while the appeal had attracted donations of more than �13,000 in less than six months.

Those giving to the appeal have their names inscribed on a silver-coloured 'star', which is then mounted on the wall in the corridor leading to the auditorium.

Theatre-goers are also offered the chance to buy a rose grown especially for the appeal by Bill Le Grice Roses of Wroxham.

'We have an impressive array of stars on the wall already,' Mrs Thompson said.

'And the amazing support we have had for the appeal, coupled with the fantastic feedback we have had about the rep season has given everyone at the theatre a real boost.'

For more information about Sheringham Little Theatre's Stars appeal, visit www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com