Conservative Party chairman Eric Pickles and prospective Harlow Conservative MP Robert Halfon visit Victoria Hall theatre amid news that sale negotiations for the premises are complete

PROSPECTIVE Harlow Conservative MP Robert Halfon took Conservative Party chairman Eric Pickles to see the "magical" Victoria Hall theatre in Old Harlow today (Tuesday, March 9), which is run entirely by volunteers.

Mr Halfon said: "The theatre is a magical place. It is run by a committee that is among one of the most passionate that I have ever seen. It takes part in everything from preparing the set to production.

"Other volunteers run and organise the management of the theatre such as ticket sales and maintenance."

He added: "It was a real pleasure to welcome Conservative Party chairman and Brentwood and Ongar MP Eric Pickles to the theatre. I wanted Eric to come to see Victoria Hall - but also because there was some good news to report."

Mr Halfon, who will contest the Harlow constituency - which includes Hastingwood, Nazeing, Roydon and Sheering at the general election - said: "Firstly, the theatre has completed negotiations with Essex County Council to purchase the building from them at a favourable rate.

"Secondly they have been the recipient of a helpful grant from Essex Council Community Chest.

"This is all down to the dedication of the volunteers and management but also because Victoria Hall is so central to Harlow's community."

Mr Halfon added: "I was really pleased to work closely with some of the committee members to help assist their strenuous efforts.

“This included meeting with county councillor John Jowers and having discussions with councillor Sarah Candy, who is responsible for finance at county level.

"Local Harlow councillors Sue Livings and Mike Garnett also played an important role. Sue in particular has been a huge champion of arts and culture in Harlow.

"All in all it was a good day. It is wonderful that this theatre will soon own its premises. Our community will benefit by having an even stronger and better theatre in Old Harlow in a most magnificent hall."

For more information, email halfon4harlow@roberthalfon.com