IT’S ALL change at the top, as the Torch Theatre makes the final preparations for its jam-packed autumn season.

As her four-year term comes to an end, Carol Mackintosh will be replaced by Wendy Goldsworthy as chairman of the theatre’s management board.

Responsible for overseeing its finances, the board also plays a strategic role in helping decide what direction the theatre should take in future.

As a charity, Torch board members also act as trustees, making sure the theatre has enough funding, and helping decide how it will be spent.

Wendy, who joined the board in 2008, said she was thrilled to continue to be involved in a theatre ‘at the heart of the community’.

She said that, through innovation and expansion, the Torch had grown from a small idea into one of only three producing theatres in Wales, attracting more than 70,000 people a year.

“We’ve survived the recession, which has hit everyone’s pockets, by putting on a really interesting programme that is open to everyone,” she said.

Welcoming her to the role, artistic director Peter Doran said Wendy's energy and enthusiasm would make her an effective chair, continuing the excellent work of her predecessors.

"They say that a change is as good as a rest and I’m sure this will be the case, new dynamics are always exciting, especially in the creative arts,” he said.

Taking up the role of vice chair will be Nia Marshall.

All unpaid volunteers, the board now comprises 14 members, including newest additions Roger Maidment, dean at the faculty of arts at University of Wales, Trinity St Davids, Carmarthen; Dave Ainsworth, former youth and education officer at the Torch; and Chris Davies, director of Austwel Ltd.

“We all just do it because we love it,” said Carol, who has been on the board for 18 years.

“The Torch is more than just a stage to perform on, amateur groups also gets the experience of all our professionals.”

“All my children have been involved at some point, and my son is now a professional actor, who will be coming back to perform at Torch later this year.

“It would never have happened if he hadn’t been able to come here when he was younger.”

Both Wendy and Carol are looking forward to the theatre’s busy autumn schedule, which includes Grav - a look at the life of rugby legend Ray Gravell – and panto favourite Cinderella among its highlights.

To see what else the Torch has in store this season, visit torchtheatre.co.uk.