A POOLE attraction has been damaged after an incident involving the sprinkler system.

The theatre at Lighthouse, Poole is shut "for the immediate future" as a result of flooding. The theatre itself, as well as dressing rooms and technical equipment, were extensively damaged, staff say.

Events which were due to take place at Lighthouse yesterday were cancelled and the building is shut today.

Sara St George, deputy CEO, said: "The safety of our staff and customers is paramount so we have taken the precaution to shut the building to review the extent of the damage and fully test all our systems so that the building can open tomorrow, July 3.

"The incident was contained within the theatre which will remain closed for the immediate future.

"Although investigations and related follow-up activities will continue for several days or weeks, all other spaces will be fully operational."

Staff quickly shut down the electrical system and contacted the fire brigade after the incident.

The damage will be assessed today. The programme of events due to take place in the theatre will be under review.

Ms St George said the theatre was already due to shut in August for maintenance work.

"We ask that customers do not contact us direct," she said.

"Our ticket office will be in touch to inform customers whether events due to take place in the theatre will be moved to another space or be postponed.

"We thank our staff and customer for their patience this week while we deal with this situation and work to ensure our programme continues to run with as little disruption as possible."

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