Braintree theatre The Institute secures Tesco's Stronger Starts scheme

The Bocking Art Theatre Trust: The Institute Restoration Project is one of the groups on the Braintree shortlist. Built in 1862, since 2023 its trustees Lewis Codling and Jim Hollands have been busy turning the venue back into a space the town is proud of. As well as adding well-known shows and acts on a weekly basis – including Paul Young, Aled Jones and Shaun Ryder – they are also busy with continuous refurbishment, with many areas left by the previous trustee in a neglected state.

Trustees Lewis and Jim said: "We're delighted to have been accepted for the Tesco Stronger Starts scheme, putting the grant towards tiered seating and toilet refurbishment if successful. Running such an old and iconic building means we're forever having to upkeep all areas. It's our mission to make The Institute a vital part of the Essex arts and culture scene – and with the help of the Tesco Stronger Starts scheme we ultimately will."

Voting opens in the Braintree Town Centre, Great Notley, Marks Farm and Braintree Coggeshall Express stores from October 2024 to January 2025. Here, customers can cast their vote for The Bocking Arts Theatre Trust using a blue token given to them at the check-out each time they shop.

Tesco's Stronger Starts – previously known as Tesco Community Grants – has already provided over £110 million to more than 60,000 projects across Britain, with funding available to groups and charities looking to fund projects that benefit local communities. To help The Institute secure this award all Braintree Town Centre, Great Notley, Marks Farm and Braintree Coggeshall Express store customers should use their tokens to vote for The Bocking Arts Theatre Trust between October 2024 and January 2025.

For further information please visit www.theinstitutebraintree.co.uk or email Marketing Manager Claire Muffett-Reece on claire@theinstitutebraintree.co.uk