YOUNGSTERS at the Queen’s Youth Theatre are celebrating after being given a generous donation from their new neighbour.

The Youth Theatre based at the theatre in Billet Lane, Hornchurch is delighted after they were presented with �135 by branch manager Andy Courage from the new Waitrose store in High Street, Hornchurch on Tuesday February 15.

Head of Development at the theatre, Katie Milton said: “We are really pleased to have received this kind gift and are very grateful to Waitrose,

“It will go towards creating a great set and costumes in a wonderful production that will showcase our budding acting talents.”

The Theatre was overjoyed to be named one of Waitrose’s chosen fundraising causes, forming part of its Community Matters Project which distributes money to local projects.

Funds will go towards the Queen’s Q Youth Summer Production, a full scale stage adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s hugely popular Just So Stories in July, which will star more than 150 local youngsters aged between 7 - 19.

A Waitrose spokesman said:“We’re delighted our donation is going to such a splendid cause.”