'Last Hurrah' for Cannock Theatre and museum? - Campaigners and MP continue fight to save them

He is continuing to support the campaign to try and save the Prince of Wales Theatre in Cannock and the Museum of Cannock Chase, both of which could close at the end of April.

A full council meeting in February set a draft budget which would see funding for the two venues effectively end, with closure set for next month.

Yet campaigners have vowed to fight to save both venues, and a charitable group called Cannock Chase Theatre Trust representing the Prince of Wales campaign has now been set up to try and secure its future. 

Andrew Moseley from the Cannock Chase Theatre Trust said: "We are working closely with Josh, whose support has been invaluable.

"With his help, we are arranging meetings with various government departments to explore potential funding options.

"These discussions are crucial for our future initiatives, and we are hopeful that they will open new avenues for assistance and collaboration.

"Our charity application has been submitted to the appropriate authorities and we await the final sign-off.

"It represents a significant step in our journey to take over the management of the theatre and demonstrates our commitment to securing the necessary support and resources for our cause."

A group fighting to save the Museum of Cannock Chase will also be represented at the meeting, which takes place at The Aquarius, Hednesford from 6-8pm.

Mr Newbury, who has brought up the future of both venues in Parliament said: "Both groups will be updating us on their activities over the last six weeks and I will also  talk about  my activities in Parliament, including new funding announced by the Government and a meeting with the culture minister."

Booking for the meeting is advised through Josh Newbury's office by e-mailing him at [email protected] or by calling 01543 384 681.

Meanwhile, a concert billed as 'One Last Hurrah' could also be one of the final ones at The Prince of Wales.

John Wildwood, a popular country, folk and pop singer from Lichfield, who has been playing concerts across the Midlands for 54 years, will perform at the Church Street venue on Friday March 21.

He will be joined by some of the people he has performed with over the years including The Allcats, Mark Parry and Tony Wall.

John, now in his 80s, said: "This is probably my last concert, whether it will be the same at the Prince of Wales remains to be seen but I hope they can save it as it is a great venue and musicians like me need to have places like this to entertain people."

Tickets for the show at £10 are available from The Prince of Wales Theatre in Cannock or by phoning the box office on 01543 578 762