A town’s only theatre has issued a plea for help as it tries to raise £20,000 to secure its future.

Bosses at The Astor Theatre say they need the cash to maintain the site’s programme of events as it faces rising energy bills.

About 20,000 people attend the venue each year, but additional support is needed as supply costs have stretched its resources.

The theatre has been praised by visitors for the variety of performances it offers, and bosses say they want to take a “proactive approach” to ensure it stays open.

Duncan Campbell, chairman of the Astor Theatre, says the town “would be devastated” if it lost the venue.

“It’s a significant asset for the town, not just Deal; it’s Sandwich, Walmer, and all the villages around,” he said.

“We want to continue to bring really good quality stuff to the people so they don’t have to go to London or pay high prices when they can stay home and see really good entertainment.

“The atmosphere is totally different; everyone is a part of the same community, and you don't have the anonymous thing you might get in a bigger theatre where you’re just one of many.

“We’re not in the position where we want to ask people to bail us out; we want to be on the front foot and show people what we are going to do with the money in a positive way.

“Most of the people you’ll see in the theatre are volunteers, and we just need a few more people to get out and be generous if they can. We’ll put it to good use.”

As well as shows including big-name comics, the site is also home to tribute acts and screenings of the Royal Opera Society.

Last week, comedian Milton Jones took his tour, ‘Work in Progress’, to the venue as he tried out new material for the show.

“We want to continue to bring really good quality stuff to the town…”

The 180-seater theatre was first opened in 1944 after Major John Astor gifted the land to the people of Deal.

After years of disuse, the venue became the focus of a campaign to preserve its heritage, resulting in a major restoration project and reopening in June 2010.

The theatre’s fundraising campaign has so far raised more than £7,400. To donate, click here.