Greenham Common Trust Responds
to £3 million Watermill Theatre Appeal

The Watermill Theatre's 2005 appeal for £3 million received a phenomenal boost in its first week as Greenham Common Trust responding with a pledge of £520,000, representing nearly 20% of the £3,000,000 needed to secure the future of the theatre.

The Grade II listed theatre, its grounds and buildings are due to come up for sale next year. Its current owners Jill Fraser and James Sargant plan to move on in 2008, after 25 years at The Watermill. The Watermill Theatre Trust has an option to buy the premises and secure the future of The Watermill. At the same time the organisation is bursting at the seams and money is needed to develop and refurbish the buildings. The Watermill Theatre Trust launched an appeal on 10th June 2005 to raise the £3,000,000.

The funds to be supplied by Greenham Common Trust will contribute to the costs of extending and refurbishing the existing office accommodation, providing additional workshop and rehearsal space, and increasing the electricity and mains water supply. In addition, the Trust will fund a new sewage treatment plant to replace the existing, decaying system, which will be a major environmental benefit.

Sir Peter Michael, the Trust's chairman, says: “As soon as the Greenham Common Trust heard that The Watermill had to raise £3 million we knew we wanted to help with a substantial grant. Having supported the theatre with previous grants we understood the quality and importance of its work and involvement with the community. The Watermill is more than just a place of entertainment in Newbury. It also makes a vital contribution to the wider community by touring small-scale productions to rural communities and schools in Berkshire and around England.

“The Theatre's work in encouraging youth theatre, its education projects and its special initiatives, such as work with the Reading Homeless Project and Newbury Day Centre, make it a significant and precious resource for the area that is worthy of our support.”

Ralph Barnard, Chairman of The Watermill Appeal Board said “This award from Greenham Common Trust is a fantastic start to our Appeal to raise the £3 million needed to ensure the future of The Watermill as a theatre that brings an extra dimension to the lives of many people in Berkshire and beyond. We anticipate that this award made so soon after the announcement will enhance our ability to reach our target.”

For more information contact Andrew Barber on 01635 817444 or e-mail andrew@greenham-common-trust.co.uk