A NEW artistic director is moving to the Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield.

Paul Maurel, who is now working in Ealing, London, will join the theatre in June.

He will replace Rose Cuthbertson, who has left the theatre to work as a freelance. She had been there since November 2000.

Mr Maurel is theatre director at The Questors Theatre - the largest community theatre in Europe.

He trained in stage management at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and has worked in various theatres.

His CV includes a stint as director of the Trinity Arts Centre in Gainsborough, executive director of the Belfast Civic Arts Centre and a four-year spell as theatre director of the Eden Court Theatre in Inverness.

He said: "I am very much looking forward to working at the Lawrence Batley Theatre and moving to Yorkshire."

Denis Ripley, the chairman of Kirklees Theatre Trust, welcomed the appointment.

He said: "I am delighted we have been able to appoint someone with Paul Maurel's considerable experience.

"I have had discussions with Paul since his appointment and I am impressed by his commitment and enthusiasm.

"I look forward very much to working with him to build on the reputation of the theatre."