Hayley MaceA world famous orchestra is extending its residency in Lowestoft into a sixth year, it has been announced today.Hayley Mace

A world famous orchestra is extending its residency in Lowestoft into a sixth year, it has been announced today.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) first came to the Marina Theatre in Lowestoft in 2005 as the theatre was granted one of only three residencies outside London.

Now the venue's management has announced that the prestigious orchestra will return to the east coast town in 2010.

The link between the theatre and the orchestra was due to come to an end last December, but local campaigning ensured that theatre bosses secured an extension into 2009, which has now been extended again.

Theatre manager Martin Halliday said: 'We are extremely proud of our association with the RPO and we are delighted that they have agreed to extend their residency at the Marina.

'The past few years have enabled us to present some of the finest musicians in the world here on stage in Lowestoft, it is a great honour that the orchestra have agreed to further extend their residency and shows a great deal of faith in both the future of the Marina and its audience.'

RPO managing director Ian Maclay said: 'The orchestra greatly enjoys its association with Lowestoft, and the support that we have received from local audiences is very important to us.

'We look forward to continuing the residency into 2010 with a series of first-class concerts, featuring classical works alongside some special items from the world of film and opera.'

t Tickets for the sixth year of residency will be available at the end of October. For more information, call the box office on 01502 533200.