THERE was good news for the Thameside Theatre as the ruling Labour group at Thurrock Council will not be looking for a £200,000 saving next year.

The announcement was made at a Cabinet meeting of the New Road offices on Wednesday night.

Thurrock Council leader, John Kent said: "There is no doubt that we all want a civic theatre in Grays.

"Savings and efficiencies made elsewhere mean that we are able to state that we will not be looking for a saving of £200,000 from the Thameside Theatre for the period of 2015-16.

The news comes as the Thameside pantomime is set to break box office records this year with its production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves.