A GROUP of drama lovers are hoping to stage a community buy out of Melrose’s only theatre.

The Border Telegraph revealed last month that a deal had been reached between the current owners of the Wynd Theatre with a local artist.

And plans were afoot to turn the redundant venue into a gallery and studio.

But a group has now formed from in and around the town in a bid to bring the Wynd back to life - as a theatre.

Francine Hardwick from The Wynd Project told us: “The proposal to convert the once thriving and dynamic Wynd Theatre into an artist studio and gallery is bad news for those greatly saddened by the loss of this much loved performing arts venue in the heart of Melrose.

“A local group of enthusiasts have been working behind the scenes over the past few months on a plan to save the Wynd for the community, restoring it to its former glory and extending the range of arts activity available, with appeal for all interests and age ranges.

“The Wynd was the first town centre, contemporary theatre to be set up in the Borders.

“In this little gem of a space, local audiences have thrilled to performances from top professional companies and artists who, over the years, have graced its stage. The campaign group are intent on welcoming these class acts back to the Wynd again.” The Wynd Theatre first opened its doors in 1995.

The former bedding factory was converted into an 82-seated auditorium with lounge area and toilets by its initial owner Felix Sear.

Mr Sear sold off three adjoining first floor flats and the lounge area in 2005.

And a former London lawyer and his wife, Mark and Jo Clough, bought the theatre.

The Wynd closed last year after struggling to make a profit and has been on the open market ever since at offers around £99,500.

Kerr Rodgie, who studied at Grays School of Art in Aberdeen, has reached a sale agreement with the theatre’s owners. And he has submitted a change of use application with Scottish Borders Council.

A spokesman for Mr Rodgie, who lives in St Boswells, stated: “It is proposed the change of use will create an artist’s studio and public exhibition space, thus providing a continuation of the building’s use as a visitor attraction.” But the campaign group are hoping to block the change of use bid and secure their own funding to buy the theatre. Ms Hardwick added: “Pulling the funding together is a daunting task but the group have worked out a strategy which could secure the property and fund some refurbishment and staffing, to ensure the successful future of the theatre. We hope that if sufficient objections to the proposed change of use are lodged with the council planning department, the campaign to save the Wynd can take off.

“The group believe that a dedicated theatre space is a unique asset in a community, and they are determined to save it. As well as providing a cultural focus for residents in the area, a local theatre is a great draw for tourists and visitors staying here. Local traders benefit as well.” The Wynd Theatre building, which sits on a pedestrian vennel between Buccleuch Street and the High Street, was originally an armoury for the Border Light Horse Brigade in the late 19th century.

The change of use application will be considered by Scottish Borders Council over the next few weeks with a cut off date of July 23 for objections.

To show your support for the community campaign to save the Wynd email thewyndproject@googlemail.com