The independent Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond has been awarded a £75,000 grant by Arts Council England (ACE) to help it continue to grow.

The award – given over the next three years – was given as part of the Catalyst: Evolve fund, set up to help organisations with a ‘limited fundraising record’ to attract more private funding.

The theatre’s artistic director Paul Miller said: "I am thrilled on behalf of the Orange Tree team that we have been rewarded for all our efforts and achievements over the last two years with this successful application.

“It’s going to make an enormous difference to our ability to raise crucial funding over the coming few years.”

Established in 1971, the Orange Tree Theatre serves a regional audience of 50,000 residents, and its educational arm works with 10,000 people of all ages – with activities ranging from workshops in primary schools to performances in care homes.

Chair of the Orange Tree’s board of trustees Richard Humphreys saidd: “The Orange Tree Theatre is a real gem bringing work that would grace any stage in the world to the heart of Richmond.

“We have a stellar team and a great organisation but like so many others in the arts world we are facing the challenge of building a secure and sustainable financial future.”