Sir – Like most Witney residents I am delighted to see that work is finally progressing on the Corn Exchange, and we can look forward to it opening again for community use.
Councillor Roger Curry rightly points out that our growing town “deserves a proper, thriving arts and community centre that can attract professional performers and artists”.
However, the town council should remember that before its closure the Corn Exchange was home to at least three amateur dramatic groups – Witney Dramatic Society, Class Act and Abdabs Community Theatre Group.
The WDS has been entertaining Witney audiences for more than 60 years.
Of course, professional groups should be made welcome in our town. But please do not forget the local groups who have been using church halls, schools, supermarkets and pubs to rehearse and perform for the past three years.
It is my hope that these groups (and others) will be accommodated and not priced out of using the refurbished Corn Exchange when it opens again.
There is so much local talent right on the doorstep that deserves an affordable stage.
Wendy Hurp, Cotswold Meadow, Witney
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here