A group in Sutton striving to get Secombe Theatre re-opened are now even "more optimistic" of doing so after attending the Carshalton Environmental Fair.

Founder of Sutton Secombe Theatre Revival, Tony Monblat, told Sutton Guardian: “It went very well. Over 100 people signed up. We had people in their 20s and then even a couple of ladies in their 90s sign.

“I was very happy. I was expecting the stall to be fairly popular but it exceeded my expectations.”

The theatre, based on Cheam Road, closed in 2016 after the Sutton Theatre Trust went into administration.

A “community run venture” is now being proposed by Sutton Secombe Theatre Revival in an attempt to bring the venue back to life.

At the Carshalton Environmental Fair, August 28, Mr Monblat along with other core members were able to interact with residents about the possibility of a community ran theatre.

He said: “Some were really sorry it had closed and said they would use it if it was re-opened. Others wanted to help as some had worked there in the past.

“The next thing is we will hold a public meeting at the end of September. We will send out over 100 invitations to people who signed up.”

Mr Monblat added: “We will then discuss the way forward. A few people are cautious about it and say it won’t be easy. We need a variety of views both the enthusiastic ones and the cautious ones.”

Last month, MP Paul Scully backed the campaign but warned that it would be difficult to achieve.

He said: "This has been a while now and the council seem to have almost given up on it. A lot of investment will have to be made to make it sustainable but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth doing as we do need a cultural offering in the borough."

Asked about this, Mr Monblat responded: “I think he was probably right. I’m glad he’s keen on seeing the theatre re-opened and his cautionary notes were sensible. We are very determined.”

According to Mr Monblat, since launching the Facebook page, three people have been recruited as core members in helping lead the group forward.

Reflecting on the Carshalton Environmental Fair, he said: “I’m even more optimistic now really. It was great to see the number of people who shared an interest.”

You can follow their progress through their Facebook page Sutton Secombe Theatre Revival.