The Newcastle Journal has helped secure the future of the historic Tyne Theatre after agreeing a three-year sponsorship deal.

As part of the arrangement the venue, which plays host to an assortment of events, has been renamed The Journal Tyne Theatre.

The theatre's springboard for survival involved SMG Europe agreeing a 15-year lease on the Grade 1 listed building with the owner, Adderstone Group.

Journal editor Brian Aitken said: "I'm delighted that The Journal has joined forces with SMG to safeguard the future of an important part of the North East's cultural heritage.

"We have always been keen to support cultural events and this is a case of us putting our money where our mouth is."

The Journal, which is owned by Trinity Mirror, has announced that there will be promotional offers for readers as part of the sponsorship.

The theatre is set to reopen under its new name on October 17.

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