A leading theatre is calling for business figures in the county to join its advisory board to help steer it into the future.

The Gulbenkian, which is within the University of Kent campus in Canterbury, wants the board to help connect more young people across Kent with the arts.

The appeal was made by Oliver Carruthers, the theatre's director, who joined in May from east London independent arts centre Rich Mix.

He replaced Liz Moran who took up the post of the university's first director of arts and culture.

And he says with the theatre celebrating its 50th anniversary next year, it's the perfect time for the board members to make a difference.

Mr Carruthers explained: "As we approach our 50th anniversary, we are looking to strengthen our existing board members’ knowledge, skills and expertise in a number of key areas by recruiting well-connected and experienced individuals.

"We want to recruit board members from all backgrounds, ages and sections of the community to create a vibrant, inventive group who can help us come up with brilliant new ideas. If you feel you can help, please get in touch.”

Applications close on July 16 at 10am. Application details can be found on www.thegulbenkian.co.uk.

Or send a CV and a brief covering letter setting out why you’re interested in becoming a member of the advisory board and what you may be able to contribute. Send it to: Oliver Carruthers, director, Gulbenkian, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NB or by email to o.j.carruthers@kent.ac.uk.