A PAIR of Hampshire theatres have welcomed a new executive director.

Alan Wright will take the helm at both The Point in Eastleigh and The Berry Theatre in Hedge End.

He is taking over from Crispian Cook who has left after almost three years to become chief executive of Halsway Manor in Somerset, the National Centre for Folk Arts.

Alan joins the theatres from the Bristol Old Vic where he worked as director of development and was responsible for raising almost £8m to pay for its refurbishment programme.

The award-winning TV producer has previously worked on documentaries and dramas including Channel 4’s Dispatches and a BBC adaption of Richmal Crompton’s Just William books.

He takes over from Crispian Cook, who is moving to Halsway Manor – The National Centre for Folk Arts as their chief executive.

Now Alan, pictured, will oversee The Point as it becomes one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving £375,000 over the next three years.

It also gets £100,000 in partnership funding from Eastleigh Borough Council which will help improve its facilities.

He said: “Having had experience of working closely with Bristol Old Vic’s outstanding Outreach Department for the past three years, I will also lend my weight in helping to expand the impact of The Point and its sister venue, The Berry Theatre, as major educational assets within their immediate communities, as well as the wider region.

“The adoption of The Point as an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation is not only recognition of the extraordinary work already achieved in Eastleigh, but gives important impetus to the establishment of The Point as a major incubator for talent, regionally and nationally, providing a range of work that informs, inspires and entertains.”

Cheryl Butler, head of culture at Eastleigh Borough Council, said: “We are excited to be appointing a new executive director, who will bring something new to the role and help us build on our national reputation as a crucible for emerging talent and our local commitment to bringing and making great art locally which really engages with our community.”