CLONTER Opera Theatre will close by next spring unless it can win financial support to replace funding lost over the past year.

The theatre at Swettenham Heath celebrated its 40th anniversary in July, but is set to shut by March 2105 unless it wins more financial backing.

It has attracted more than 1,500 newcomers to its audience this year, but has lost two long-term donors, three corporate sponsors and the financial support of two trusts.

“The draw on funding sources is ever increasing, and the resources available are decreasing,” said Isabella Lockett, head of marketing and joint chief executive.

“Clonter has not been immune to this strain, and come the end of March it will close its doors until new supporters can be found.

“We are calling on any philanthropists or local firms who wish to be a part of keeping this part of Cheshire’s cultural heritage alive.

“We are also appealing to our existing supporters to spread the word about Clonter, and to those who have never been through the door, to give us a chance.

“Clonter still has the capacity to raise an extra £50,000 from ticket sales alone if it can fill the theatre from all remaining events between now and March 31 - it is not too late to save this hidden gem.”

Clonter Opera Theatre was founded by Jeffery Lockett, its artistic director, in July 1974, and in 1983 the theatre was enlarged to create a raked auditorium with 400 seats and indoor dining areas.

Isabella stressed the wide range of events held at Clonter.

“We do put on opera, but offer so much more besides,” she said.

“We are preparing for the arrival of the Sinatra Jukebox, our third jazz event this year, on November 1.

“Then there is our annual opera gala, followed by the London Adventist Chorale’s annual visit, with the year finishing with our first panto.

“In addition, fingers crossed, next year we will be paid a visit by Eddi Reader before the end of March, after a return visit from the comic poet John Hegley.

“We continue to receive very positive feedback from all those who attend, and have just had more than 1,000 children through our doors.

“We are increasingly being hired by the community for competitions, ballets, conferences, and this year a music camp and panto – but we need more.

“We don’t want to keep asking people who come for more money, but don’t also want to pretend everything is fine, and then only say when it is too late.

“What our loyal supporters can do is to try and bring more people, and if they are not already a Friend of Clonter to become one.

“They collectively are our biggest funder, but we are aware there are many people out there who know we are here but have never come. I would say to all of them – give us a go.”

If you would like to support the theatre ring 01260 224638 and for tickets ring 224514.