THE boss of Taunton's Brewhouse Theatre and Arts Centre has announced she is leaving.

Vanessa Lefrancois is stepping down as chief executive and artistic director of Taunton Theatre Association, operator of the Brewhouse, after four-and-a-half years in the post.

During her time at the riverside venue, Mrs Lefrancois has grown TTA and helped re-establish The Brewhouse as a critically acclaimed are venue in the South West.

She said: "It was an honour to be entrusted to revive the fortunes of The Brewhouse and a privilege to have worked alongside such a wonderful, dedicated team of staff, volunteers, trustees and supporters.

"I am immensely proud of what TTA has collectively achieved during my time with the company.

"We have entertained and inspired many people who have engaged with our artistic programmes, raised the profile of the town and contributed to the local economy."

Mrs Lefrancois is staying on at The Brewhouse for the immediate future while TTA begins the search for her replacement.

TTA chairman of the trustees Val Hammond said Mrs Lefrancois will continue to work "in the same positive way she has embraced since starting the role".

Ms Hammond added: "Vanessa has made an enormous contribution to the arts in Taunton and more widely through her vision, creativity and energetic leadership.

"Since her appointment in 2015, she has successfully led the renaissance of The Brewhouse Theatre, overseeing the revival of Somerset’s county town venue and the development of its eclectic performance, participation, film and visual arts programmes.

"It has been inspirational to work alongside her."

Before Mrs Lefrancois's arrival, The Brewhouse closed for a period due to financial problems.

It now attracts 72,000 visitors a year and enjoys a turnover of more than £1million.

The high spots of her tenure include four critically acclaimed Christmas musicals, legendary comedians, internationally renowned dance companies, performances by The Shakespeare Globe on Tour and a live recording for BBC Radio 3.