WHEN Lauren Meehan discovered the theatre she worked at needed £100,000 to create a new auditorium she decided to raise as much money as she could herself.

Now she has dusted off her trainers to get ready for a May half marathon and is hoping the people of Oxfordshire will get behind her to help her raise the much-needed funds.

The 31-year-old works as a press and marketing officer for the Oxford Playhouse, which is set to undergo a complete renovation this summer, including the creation of a new auditorium.

She said: "We've already raised about £650,000 of the money we needed to make changes to the theatre and I'm hoping my efforts will help us get even closer to the final target.

"I think it's so important that places like the Playhouse stay open and fully functioning because not only does it put on classic plays and entertain people but it encourages talent and works with young people in the county."

Jo Osborne, the development manager of the project, said the next three months were part of the final phase of a three-year refurbishment costing £750,000.

The theatre has not been fully renovated since it opened 77 years ago although several changes were made in 1991.

The venue was the UK’s last new theatre to be constructed before the Second World War and has featured actors such as Ian McKellen, Judi Dench, Ronnie Barker and John Gielgud gracing the stage.

Ms Osborne said: "Arts Council England contributed over half, and we now have only the last £100,000 to go, but it's a race against time to raise this vital last part of the budget before the work begins in June.

"There are many ways to give, from Naming a Seat to donating online - we need your support to ensure the comfort and enjoyment of audiences for years to come."

The theatre in Beaumont Street has sold 30 seat plaques for £500 so far, with other residents spending £15 to buy a tin of paint, £75 on a square metre of carpet and £250 on LED stage light.

Chief executive of the Playhouse Louise Chantal said she was impressed with Ms Meehan's commitment to the theatre.

She added: "Lauren never does anything by halves, so I guess we should be amazed it's only a half marathon.

"We're all in awe of her energy and commitment to the Playhouse, and the money raised will help us over the finish line to our fundraising target for this summer's refurbishment, which will be a lasting legacy for all her hard work."

Anyone wanting to name a seat or make a donation should contact the development office at the Playhouse on 01865 305315 or visit Ms Meehan's page mydonate.bt.com/events/ophalfmarathon