It opened as a fishermen's mission in 1899, was a naval base during the Second World War and is now Britain's most easterly theatre.

And ahead of its 125th anniversary next year, a popular amateur dramatics society is pressing ahead with plans to preserve the historic Bethel in Lowestoft with a vision for the future.

The Lowestoft Players - an award winning community theatre group and registered charity - has owned The Players Theatre situated on Battery Green Road since 2008.

Lowestoft Journal: The Players Theatre, Lowestoft which is owned by The Lowestoft Players. Picture: The Lowestoft PlayersThe Players Theatre, Lowestoft which is owned by The Lowestoft Players. Picture: The Lowestoft Players (Image: Lowestoft Players)

Originally used as a rehearsal space, the iconic building was transformed into a performance venue in 2009 after hard work from volunteer members and several small grants.

With the theatre run entirely by volunteers, it has a continuous programme of maintenance to ensure that it is fit for purpose.

A Crowdfunder appeal over the pandemic raised more than £50,000 to replace the building's antiquated heating system with a modern air management system along with other theatre improvements.

Lowestoft Journal: The Players Theatre Auditorium with a seating capacity of 200. Picture: Stephen WilsonThe Players Theatre Auditorium with a seating capacity of 200. Picture: Stephen Wilson (Image: Stephen Wilson)

And ahead of its 125th anniversary next year, the Players are now searching for a fund raiser to join them.

With plans for expansion to increase capacity and to continue to modernise the building further in the pipeline, the Players are keen to attract a new fund raiser, who will work closely with the executive team.

With a particular emphasis on applying for grants and other funds which are potentially available, this role would be a voluntary post and would suit someone with previous experience.

Graham Jermyn, who is chair of the theatre’s operational management group, said: "The Players Theatre really is an important asset to the town.

"It benefits so many people – performers and patrons.

"It’s fantastic that we have such a venue in Lowestoft but to keep it relevant and desirable the almost 125-year-old building needs further investment.

"We very much hope that we can find the right person to help us with that."

To apply for this position or to find out more email Nick Garrod, chair of The Lowestoft Players, via nick2@scenicprojects.co.uk