A NEW media area will allow theatre-goers the chance to get social.

The Courtyard in Hereford has created the public area complete with five Apple iMacs in part of the main foyer as part of the Arts Council England and Herefordshire Council capital improvement programme.

Users at the Edgar Street arts venue's film-making workshops for youg people will be able to use the facility to edit films and images.

Ian Archer, chief executive of the Courtyard, said: “We are delighted that the generous support of our partners has enabled us to create a digital media suite for our visitors.

"Access to digital media facilities and the opportunities this can open up is so important. This great new facility provides free access to the digital world for members of the local community and the wider public.”

The iMacs can be used to browse the internet, prepare presentations and undertake other tasks in an internet café style.

The new service is free to access, although a returnable £5 security deposit is required, and it is open Monday to Sunday.

For more information, go to courtyard.org.uk or call 01432 340555.