Two theatres unexpectedly shut amidst financial difficulties

Two theatres in Devon have unexpectedly shut, after the Trust which operates them went into administration.

The North Devon Theatres' Trust declared on Monday that it had run into "financial difficulties", and could no longer operate, after a council buyout fell through.

The Queen's Theatre in Barnstaple and The Landmark in Ilfracombe have since cancelled all their upcoming shows.

A notice has been put up at both theatres warning people that refunds are unlikely.

Protesters gathered outside The Landmark determined to send a message to the council: "we won't let it die, and we won't let it fizzle out. This is our place for our arts".

Watch the protest below with our reporter Bob Cruwys:

It's been described as a "massive blow" to the local community with many performers left without a venue, and dozens of jobs at stake.

North Devon Council says negotiations ran into difficulties last year: