Actor and Smack Family Robinson director Richard Wilson was at the Rose Theatre for this year’s community awards evening.

The awards recognise people of all ages who have worked on performances in groups such as the Rose Plus Players and Anstee Bridge.

Mr Wilson said: “Community should be at the heart of theatre and it’s great to see that the Rose has a lot going on.

“I’m really pleased to have been asked to be a part of it and to recognise the hard work and talent of the community programme.”

Winner Liz Salaman, 73, from Kingston, was given an award for her acting improvement.

She said: “It was a lovely evening. For me actually the experience of being able to act with drama students, graduates, and ex-drama teachers was so fulfilling.

“I was delighted with it.”

Grace Molony, 17, of Teddington, received an award for her performance in Tess of the D’Urbervilles.

She said youth theatre at the Rose “must be the best experiences for actors you can get at this age”.

She added: “I feel really close to all of them and it was great to catch up with all the people from Tess.”

Learning and participation director Ciaran McConville said: “It was lovely to have such a big turnout and have our theatre filled with people who are part of our community programme.

“It is a fragile thing and something we are very proud of.

“Obviously, having Richard Wilson, who is such a great supporter of the Rose, was great for everyone.”