The community has praised the efforts of Martin Halliday in transforming the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft.

Now, as he prepares for new challenges, as he 'pursues other opportunities within the theatre industry,' there was widespread 'praise' for his tireless hard work and dedication.

Lowestoft mayor Stephen Ardley said: 'Martin has played a hugely important role in the development of the Marina Theatre, from when he joined to when the venue was saved a few years ago. He will leave a big hole in the town, but I am sure that the trust will work hard to fill this role.

'On behalf of Waveney District Council, I wish Martin all the very best in his future endeavours.'

Mr Halliday has worked closely over the years with the Lowestoft Vision business improvement district (BID) to host numerous events – including the festive lights switch-on – and help boost the town centre.

Danny Steel, chairman of Lowestoft Vision, said that he had played a key role in putting Lowestoft on the map. He said: 'Certainly the business relationship with Martin was always very positive, and very good, as he worked very closely with us on the events – particularly the Christmas events in the town centre that ran in recent years. Martin was a stalwart member of Lowestoft Vision, who was heavily involved in the Portas Pilot scheme and before that the town centre partnership.'

He added: 'Martin was a major asset to the town and he is certainly going to be missed.'

Waveney MP Peter Aldous was 'effusive in his praise' of Mr Halliday. He said: 'I would say Martin was Lowestoft's impressario, as he fully understood and appreciated the demand for what the Lowestoft public wanted.

'He has guided the Marina Theatre through an initial challenging period, to what it is now, with a significant investment.

'He has to take awful lot of credit for that, and I wish Martin all the best for the future.'