A drama club in Weymouth has received a £9,000 boost from two separate funds. 

Weymouth Drama Club is a charity run by its members on a voluntary basis, presenting various community productions throughout the year. 

It has received £5000 in National Lottery Funding and £4000 from Dorset Council's Youth Fund. 

This money will be used to support the work of the club’s youth section and to refurbish the toilet facilities to be more "welcoming and inclusive."

Simon Raynes, chair of Weymouth Drama Club said: “We’re delighted that the National Lottery Community Fund and Dorset Council’s Youth Fund have recognised our work in this way. 

"Now thanks to these grants we will be able to deliver more high-quality drama for the community and welcome more members.  We accept anyone who has an interest in theatre from 7 to 70+, you don’t have to act, and you don’t have to audition unless you would like a part in one of our plays."

The club produces plays around the Weymouth area at venues including their own theatre, The Bay Theatre at Weymouth College, Weymouth Bay Methodist Church and Weymouth Pavilion.  They have also performed at outdoor venues such as The Nothe Fort and Portland Castle.

The next production will be Dracula, which will be performed for five nights in October and November and the auditions will be held on Tuesday, August 13 from 7.30pm. 

You can find out further information by emailing curtainraisers7@gmail.com.