ONE of the region’s leading theatres has launched a “name a seat” campaign to raise funds – which received backing from a Royal on a recent visit.

York Theatre Royal presented Princess Beatrice of York with a seat named in her honour as part of its fundraising campaign.

It is hoping its latest initiative will help raise the final £500,000 needed towards at £4.1m renovation taking place in 2015.

Seats cost £300 each, which can be paid over the course of a year, and will feature a personalised plaque.

Chief executive of the theatre, Liz Wilson, said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity to present Princess Beatrice with her own seat during her visit, and hope this will raise further awareness of our fundraising campaign.

“As part of the theatre’s transformation, we are offering our audiences and friends the chance to personalise a part of the theatre by naming a seat in the newly decorated auditorium, and hope Princess Beatrice’s involvement will inspire others to become part of the theatre’s history.”

York Theatre Royal will close its doors in March 2015 for eight months as it improves access to the auditorium, re-vamps it’s foyer, increases the size of its cafe and replaces its current stage and seating. People who name a seat before this time will have their plaques put on their new seats once the building re-opens.

To name a seat contact; fundraising@yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or go online at; yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or call the Box Office on; 01904-623568.