IRISH crooner Daniel O'Donnell has given his backing to naming a seat at Ipswich's Regent Theatre.The refurbished theatre, in St Helen's Street, was officially opened by Ipswich Mayor Inga Lockington at a ceremony held on the 78-year-old theatre's stage on September 14.

IRISH crooner Daniel O'Donnell has given his backing to naming a seat at Ipswich's Regent Theatre.

The refurbished theatre, in St Helen's Street, was officially opened by Ipswich Mayor Inga Lockington at a ceremony held on the 78-year-old theatre's stage on September 14.

The £500,000 project, which has included new seats, new carpets, painting, decorating and a new lighting system has been described a “labour of love” by theatre manager Hazel Clover.

Many stars, including Daniel and Australian heart-throb Jason Donovan, have sponsored some of the new seats.

Hazel said: “So many people have enabled this project to happen. We hope the fruits of our labour will be enjoyed by generations to come.”

After 13 weeks of refurbishment work, the theatre opened its doors and the first performance was from Daniel himself.

The folk singer performed two sell out performances on Monday, September 17 and Tuesday, September 18, belting out his favourite easy-listening tunes.

The clean-cut 45-year-old singer has been entertaining Ipswich audiences since 1992. He has sold more than 62,000 tickets at the theatre, over a total of 36 dates.

In fact the only year which Daniel missed performing was 2004 when he was touring America.