WINCHESTER'S theatre group for people with learning difficulties has appointed three new trustees.

Management consultant and photographer Mike Hall, Marilyn Weston, and Jon Brown have joined the Blue Apple board.

Mr Hall said: "As a parent of a child with a learning disability, I am acutely aware of how important the work of organisations like Blue Apple are.

"I hope to bring some of the things I’ve learned from that experience, as well as my enthusiasm and commitment.”

He has three children including a daughter who works in the special educational needs sector and has watched the last three main productions at the Theatre Royal Winchester.

Ms Weston, from Alresford, decided to become a trustee after meeting Blue Apple chairman Georgiana Robertson at a play reading in Winchester.

She said: “Georgiana inspired me with her infectious enthusiasm for Blue Apple. I have been so impressed by the work done by a very talented and dedicated group of people.

“I hope I can bring realism, honesty and plain speaking with a love of theatre and the pleasure that it brings to this new role.”

With more than 30 years experience in financial management, Mr Brown first heard about Blue Apple when he saw production posters at the Theatre Royal Winchester.

He said: “One of my sons has autism and through the local autism network, I heard good things about the great work Blue Apple is doing.

"I like the inclusivity of Blue Apple and the opportunities it offers its members which is unlike anything else in the area. I decided to step forward and offer my skills to help the charity strengthen itself and grow before handing it on to the next board of trustees for them to continue."