EFFORTS to install air conditioning at the Swan Theatre have been stepped up a gear following last week's soaring summer weather.

Chris Jaeger, director of the Swan Theatre and Huntington Arts, said £1,200 had been raised so far after bucket collections and kind donations by Worcester News readers.

As we reported last month the theatre is yearning for an air conditioned auditorium and has started a campaign.

It needs £40,000 to buy and set up a system and is appealing for donations.

"The money we've raised so far is good," said Mr Jaeger.

"But it's early days yet and it will probably take us a year to raise that money.

"We've got lots of companies that do shows here that have said they would like to help with the fund-raising, and, as a result of the Worcester News doing that story, people have come up to us and donated money, for which we are very grateful.

"There are also some trusts out there that we are hoping will help us. So far I'd say it's going good, but there is a long way to go yet. We know this will take time but will keep going."

As the Worcester News reported last month, Worcester City councillor Dave Clark has called for the theatre to be relocated to the old vinegar works in Lowesmoor.

But no move is on the cards as the site is already earmarked to be the new home of the Territorial Army unit.

""I don't want to give the impression that the Swan Theatre is on its last legs," said Coun Clark.

"The Swan does have a sell-by date, but it hasn't reached it yet. The centre has no air conditioning and any help they could get would be welcome."