The popular Side by Side Theatre Company has recently been surprised with sponsorship from the Stourbridge Shuttle operators, Pre Metro, just in time for Christmas.

The charity engages with residents to give people with learning disabilities the opportunity to develop independent living and life skills through the medium of performing arts.

Their main aim is to promote equality for all through producing high-quality theatrical entertainment and to encourage the mental and physical wellbeing of their students across the exercises taught in classes.

Across the next two years, they will receive a total sum of £5000 to help with any further renovations at the SideSpace, the former St John Church, as well as assistance to enable more students to attend via the railway.

Sue Wallin founded Side by Side at the local college in 1997 and is excited about the benefits this new sponsorship will bring.

“Side by Side Theatre Company are thrilled to be sponsored by Pre Metro. This will open up new opportunities and exciting possibilities for more learning disabled people to have access, through the convenience of the Shuttle, to work with dedicated, professional theatrical practitioners and discover their own creativity and potential.”

Pre Metro’s Chairman, Geoff Lusher, said: “We’re extremely pleased to sponsor this wonderful local charity. The recent renovation works done by the team have ensured their students have all the safe and essential facilities they need. We thought they were deserving of our support, and we hope our Shuttle can assist both families and new students that want to attend classes and shows.”

They also hope to assist students further afield, most likely at locations near the route for their proposed Stourbridge Dasher passenger service.The Dudley-based Train Operating Company is also asking potential students to get in contact should they want any assistance with transport needs.