THE daughter of world famous comic, Stan Laurel, has thrown her weight behind the campaign to save a former Dudley theatre.

Lois Laurel Hawes has written to the Friends of Dudley Hippodrome campaign group from her stateside home pledging her support, as they continue their fight to keep the former Castle Hill attraction from demolition by Dudley Council.

In her letter she says: “I believe it would be a tragedy and a terrible shame if this happened. “I say that not only because my father and other famous stars appeared there, but it would deprive the area of such a wonderful boost to the community.”

Planning applications have been submitted for permission to bulldoze the former theatre, which was more recently used as a bingo hall, as part of the ongoing regeneration of Castle Hill.

The campaigners have also been boosted by The Theatres Trust, who have also opposed the application, but have suggested the building be retained and used as a community youth facility instead.

In the letter the organisation states: “There is also local concern about the loss of this venue for community benefit. It is important that needs of the local community are accommodated by the continued use of this building for cultural activities.

" It would retain a sense of tradition and provide the community with a valuable cultural asset. In our opinion, development of the venue as a community youth facility could be considered and explored.”