A HUSBAND and wife are the first to have both been commended for their contribution to the community at the same time.

Dawn and David King are the leading lights behind the success of the Headgate Theatre in Colchester.

The theatre in Chapel Street North has undergone a £170,000 refurb and now boasts a new rehearsal space, meeting room, office and workshop spaces, as well as accessible toilets and a new foyer area.

Theatre chairman David and wife Dawn, who looks after the education in performing arts at the theatre, The couple were speakers at the Rotary Cub of Colchester’s lunchtime meeting.

The couple gave a talk about the development of the theatre and were both presented with Paul Harris Fellowships (PHF).

PHFs are presented by Rotary clubs to those who have made a substantial contribution to the community.

Ian McMeekan, from the Rotary Club of Colchester, said: “Dawn and David have rendered great service to Colchester, especially with their work at the Headgate Theatre.”

“This is the first time the Rotary Club of Colchester has presented Paul Harris Fellowships to a husband and wife.”

The theatre opened for its first show in 2002.