IT HAS long been known for its wide range of shows and performances.

But now Poole’s Lighthouse is calling on its supporters to back it for a new commendation – the My Theatre Matters! Most Welcoming Theatre Award.

The prize, granted during the annual UK Theatre Awards, is voted for by the public, who have until September 29 to cast their votes.

The winner will be announced during the ceremony at the Guildhall in London on October 19.

Organised by UK Theatre, the UK Theatre Awards are the only nationwide awards to honour outstanding achievement in regional theatre throughout England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

Susie Carver of the venue said: “Lighthouse matters to the community as it opens up opportunities for new groups who may have never been able to experience live theatre before.

“Audio described, captioned and relaxed performances are all regular features of the Lighthouse programme, and more recently the arts centre has become the home of integrated theatre company Remix Gold, which works with young people, some of whom have learning disabilities or physical impairments.”

Claire Hodgson, chief executive of Diverse City, the company behind Remix Gold, said the theatre allows those participating in community projects to perform and rehearse in a professional venue.

“It raises young people’s aspirations and brings them into contact with professional technicians and arts professionals,” she said.

“The young people love it here, they like all the staff and it’s exciting, even in just coming in through the stage door with other artists. Being at Lighthouse helps them to understand how it all works and I think it’s really important to help young people to understand what a job in the arts might be like.”

For more information, or to vote, visit http://www.mytheatrematters.com/surveys/south-west