Entertainment group Apollo Leisure have also said that a "worldwide superstar" will top the bill at the opening night of the revamped £3.5 million theatre on Saturday July 24.

That will be the first live event at the historic venue for almost 25 years and the identity of the star will be revealed late next month.

The following week Boy George will appear with music legends including Midge Ure, Paul Young, Rick Astley and Nik Kershaw. The concert will feature Heaven 17, T'Pau, Kid Creole and the Coconuts, Hazel O'Connor and Toyah.

They are set to grace the theatre's stage in an '80s Rewind concert on July 31, which will celebrate the re-development of the 6,500-seat venue. It last hosted entertainment in 1986 when the James Last Orchestra performed.

Stuart Tucker, Apollo project manager, said the revamped theatre will feature a new stage and seating and a permanent backstage area for artistes.

He said: "It is fantastic to see Europe's largest open-air theatre come back to life because it is a massive asset to the town and we are looking forward to putting on a great show. It is a beautiful setting, visually stunning and gives people in the town something to be proud of."

Read the full story in Friday's Evening News