There is a buzz of excitement in the air at an amateur theatre group thanks to a huge injection of cash.

The Lowestoft Players have received £71,000 of funding to make changes and improvements to the Players Theatre in Battery Green Road.

The money means they will be able to carry out major upgrades to the stage and auditorium light and sound system, improve disabled facilities, replace some windows and doors, improve the theatre's energy efficiency and expand backstage facilities for performers.

The bulk of the funding has come from a £50,000 grant from Wren, a business awarding grants from funds donated through the Landfill Communities Fund. Wren managing director Peter Cox said: 'We're delighted to support the Lowestoft Players and their valuable work in transforming a little-used but much-loved local building into a true community hub.'

Money has also come from Awards for All England, The Geoffrey Watling Charity, the Adnams Charitable Trust and donations from the Lowestoft Players Members.

Some of the improvement works are already underway, and later phases will start throughout the rest of the year and into spring.

It will mean not only better facilities for the Players and their audiences, but the Bethel will be able to host more community groups, including those supporting people with disabilities and learning difficulties.

Players chairman Nick Garrod said: 'It is a facility which will be open for any community group, for anybody who wants to use the theatre.

'I know when this is finished it will be fantastic, when it's dressed up and ready for a show it's so atmospheric.

'It has been 40 years of people working towards a goal and a dream which we never thought we would realise and it has the catalyst of many years of work and ambition to have a home.'

Is your community group raising money for an important project? Tell The Journal by calling 01502 525820 or email lowestoft.journal@archant.co.uk