An art gallery located near Hutton-in-the-Forest, Cumbria, has received £300,000 from Arts Council England towards the development of a new puppet theatre and museum.

The purpose-built facility at Upfront Gallery is believed the first of its kind in England, with flexible seating for up to 140 people and offer a young people's theatre company.

It is hoped that touring puppet theatre groups will visit the venue once open, while a museum at the site will exhibit Upfront Gallery's own collection of puppets.

An Eden District Council spokesperson said: "Many people have already enjoyed the puppet shows held in a converted space at the Gallery over the last seven years, so the new theatre will be eagerly awaited and a great visitor attraction for Eden."

Upfront Gallery is the brainchild of John and Elaine Parkinson and first opened in 1997. It offers exhibitions by local, national and international artists across a range of disciplines.

Details: www.up-front.com