The Watersmeet in Rickmansworth has received an influx of cash to help it recover and reopen when coronavirus restrictions ease.

The Theatre received a grant of £87,500 as part of the second round of the government’s £1.57 billion Cultural Recovery Fund, Three Rivers District Council said.

More than £300 million has been awarded to thousands of cultural organisations across the country in the latest round of support.

The second round of awards will help organisations to look ahead to the spring and summer and plan for reopening and recovery.

Josh Sills, Watersmeet venue manager, said the £87,500 grant for the venue is “fantastic news”.

Watford Observer: Inside the Watersmeet Theatre Inside the Watersmeet Theatre

“The Watersmeet has received the grant that will enable the venue to reopen with a full programme of live shows, films and events, ready for all of our audiences to return safely,” he said.

“Arts and entertainment have such a positive impact on mental health and the benefits of having a local theatre enables residents to have a safe and welcoming place to socialise with friends and experience the arts.”

Culture Secretary and Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden said: “Our record breaking Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they've ever faced.

“Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors - helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in the better times ahead."

Actress Dame Judi Dench added: “Local cinemas are a vital part of our cultural lives, enthralling us with films about lives that we recognise as well as offering us stories about other cultures from around the world.

“They are places where people come together for a shared experience and have inspired many to make their careers on screen. We need to make sure that generations today and in the future have the same opportunities to enjoy and take part in the communal big screen experience.”