The Empire Theatre is pushing forward with its cinema plans after new trustees and committee members were appointed.

Last month, the Gazette reported that films could be shown at the theatre, in Butler Road, Halstead, within a year.

At a general meeting of the committee on October 16, Martin Laurence was appointed chair following the stepping down of Martyn Prince.

A new treasurer, Mary Anne Lobb, and secretary, Linda kemp, were also appointed as well as three new trustees - Liz Barrow, Neil Hardy and Andrea Morrell.

Mr Laurence was unavailable to talk, but a spokesman for the theatre said: “This is not the end but a fresh start.

“It is a really positive step forwards."