A VARIETY show in aid of Birkenhead's iconic Little Theatre has been organised by Wirral's mayor.

Cllr Les Rowlands has vowed to help the venue in Grange Road West, which has been home to the amateur dramatic group the Carlton Players since the 1950s.

A recent inspection found the theatre needs extensive electrical rewiring and, secondly, the roof is in need of repair.

To carry out this work will cost the theatre a substantial amount of money. The figure has not been disclosed.

The committee has launch another fund-raising campaign.

The mayor heard about the theatre's plight and invited members of the society to the Mayor's Parlour at Wallasey Town Hall to discuss the issues.

He agreed to personally organise a two-night event on May 13 and 14, with all proceeds going to the refurbishment.

Mike Elkerton MBE, sponsorship organiser for the Little Theatre, told the Globe today: "I am delighted that the mayor of Wirral has personally decided to support the Little Theatre by organising his own event at the theatre the during his mayoral year".

The last major fundraising effort was 10 years ago when the theatre had to adapt to meet legislation after the 'Disability Discrimination Act' came into force.

The theatre had to have a lift installed, along with an accessible toilet, for its disabled patrons, to comply with the law.

The fund-raising campaign was extremely successful and sufficient money was raised to meet the necessary requirements of the Act.

The Carlton Players are very proud that the theatre is fully accessible for all patrons.

The Mayor, a member of actors' union Equity, has the backing of some well-known celebrities, who have offered their services, free of charge, for appearing on the night.

He said: "I hope that we can all pull together to help what is an iconic theatre.

"Please help me to preserve this wonderful community theatre, which is well loved by everyone."

The fund-raising committee is currently actively looking for a business to sponsor the Mayor of Wirral's two night event.

Tickets for the show will be on sale early in the New Year.