SIR,

Press coverage of the trial of Victor Bignell has consistently referred to him as 'a former theatre trustee' or, even more specifically 'a former Savoy Theatre director'.

These references to a role he held several years ago have caused growing concern and disappointment to those of us working hard to establish a viable future for The Savoy, a building that has given much pleasure to generations since the 1920s.

The old trust of which Mr Bignell was a director was wound up, and a new board of trustees appointed; it was constituted with charitable status as The Monmouth Savoy Trust.

Our ambition is to secure the theatre as a venue for quality drama; to attract some of the UK's top entertainers; and to present the best in recent film releases.

In addition, we wish to encourage young people in the performing arts through the provision of workshops and facilities for them to have a platform on which to demonstrate their skills and enthusiasm.

These aspirations were recently acknowledged by public vote and resulted in The Savoy being a winner in the NatWest Community Force award scheme.

The prize will be of considerable assistance in the financing of ongoing youth projects.

Your readers will therefore understand why we have been concerned about the potentially adverse publicity that might accrue from Mr Bignell's previous association with the theatre.

With the invaluable help of an increasing number of volunteers we diligently supervise the activities of The Savoy and ensure that every penny of revenue is used to meet operational costs and the very considerable overheads incurred in running the building, advertising our programme of events, etc.

No trustee receives, or expects to receive, remuneration for their involvement and the only thing we hope for is continued support from the public and encouragement from the media.

With continued hard work and no small amount of luck, The Savoy will be a legacy of which Monmouth can be proud for years to come.

The Trustees

(The Savoy Theatre, Church Street, Monmouth)