Two Cornwall-based authors have penned a new book detailing the ups and downs of a campaign to transform a derelict town hall into a theatre venue.

In their book, described as a revealing behind the scenes and honest account of the ups and downs of the original Hall for Cornwall Campaign, authors Chris Warner and Sarah Smith bring together the memories of those involved in the project of transforming the semi-derelict City Hall in Truro into a multipurpose venue concert hall and theatre.

In 1997 a brand new £6.5million, 1,000 seat theatre and concert hall, which was also home to flea markets and commercial events, opened in Truro.

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The book tells the story of how a small group of people came together to overcome local authority apathy and rapacious developers and, who, against all the odds, successfully campaigned for a new hall in Truro, Cornwall.

Responsible for the new design of the new hall, they obtained permission to demolish part of a Grade Two building, and then raise the £6.5m – about £10m in today’s money – to realise their dream of a fit for purpose replacement.

The story is told in a light-hearted way by the many people who, led by Chris Warner and Sarah Smith, helped to make it all happen.

Hall for Cornwall – Montage of Memories is on sale from December 1 at the Hall for Cornwall box office and online at online at hallforcornwall.co.uk