A RENOWNED Suffolk theatre is to become an integral part of a new tourist route through Europe - just weeks after unveiling its long-awaited multi-million pound revamp.

A RENOWNED Suffolk theatre is to become an integral part of a new tourist route through Europe - just weeks after unveiling its long-awaited multi-million pound revamp.

The Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds has been included in a new traveller's route to bring together historic theatres - hailed as one of largest cultural link-ups ever.

The plans come after a £5.3 million restoration project to restore the building and continue its unique role as Britain's only fully operational surviving Regency theatre.

Artistic director Colin Blumenau said: “Ultimately, we hope being associated with historical theatres in Europe will gain us even more recognition and bring even greater status.

“We also hope this initiative can attract a lot of tourists and visitors, not only to the theatre, but also to Bury as a whole. The town has more to it than the theatre and we hope we can share these riches.”

The arrangement, which was discussed at an international congress at Bury's Angel Hotel yesterday, would see the Theatre Royal line up alongside prestigious playhouses in Europe.

The route is due to be completed by 2009 and will conclude with a travelling exhibition on historic theatres and a touring production from one of its members.