TOP entertainers Barry Cryer, Nicholas Parsons, Salisbury-based singer Rosemary Squires and Abbotts Ann magician Michael King have all lent their support to the Save Our theatre campaign.

They and other entertainers have all responded to Andover-based arts administrator Peter Redmond in his attempt to widen support for the campaign.

Nicholas Parsons said: "I remember my visit to Cricklade Theatre, and am disappointed to hear that they are experiencing difficulties and I hope your campaign to help the arts in Andover will be successful."

In her response Rosemary Squires says: "It is inconceivable that a growing and seemingly thriving town like Andover should not have a theatre and/or arts centre."

And she adds: "That the 40,000 residents of Andover must look to Salisbury, Winchester, Newbury or Basingstoke, for the nearest cinema or theatre is by any reckoning shameful."

She says she has come across many imaginative schemes during her travels, which often combine cinema with live theatre, sustained by local initiatives across the arts to encourage local involvement.

"I refuse to believe that Andover is such a cultural desert that given initial support and enthusiastic leadership it would not become viable there," she added.

Meanwhile magician Michael King said: "Performance art of all types needs a venue, particularly with the uncertainty of our British weather."

He added: "It certainly won't be magic if the last venue in the town fails to re-open."