Monmouth's historic Savoy Theatre is entering a new era, with a new Trust formed to take the theatre forward following the retirement of Vic Bignell and his wife, Renee.

Terry Ashton, who will head the new Trust with Rhianon Thomas, said: "Like many other businesses in the town The Savoy has felt the chill of the recession and will now seek new ways to increase revenue to provide a broader artistic experience to the people of Monmouth.

A newly formed group, Friends of The Savoy, will be principally responsible for fundraising. A committee has been selected, chaired by Richard Bond, and the search is now on for members.