THE Brindley Theatre in Runcorn has achieved many successes in its time, and now it is being recognised worldwide for its brilliant events and customer service.

Tripadvisor, the global online review platform, has announced that the venue is among the top 10 per cent of things to do worldwide.

Each year, Tripadvisor recognises travellers' favourite businesses around the world based on reviews and ratings collected over 12 months, and The Brindley has scored a spot at the top thanks to its many five-star reviews.

The Brindley opened in September 2004, is owned by Halton Borough Council and is the main centre for arts and entertainment for Halton.

Its facilities include a 400-seat theatre, 1190seat studio and a café.

It has more than 200,000 visitors a year and has hosted many famous names including Gary Barlow, Peter Kay and Russell Watson.

It is about to undergo a major redevelopment called the Brindley Enhancement as part of the Runcorn Town Investment Plan.

Furthermore, Granville Street Library is to be relocated to The Brindley building as part of a wider ambition to create an exciting cultural hub in Runcorn.

The Brindley has already won several other major awards, including Best Performance Venue at the Mersey Partnership Tourism Awards 2008 and Best Arts Project in the UK at the National Lottery Awards 2007.

The latest award should see The Brindley reach an even wider audience in its next exciting chapter.

Cllr Paul Nolan, Halton Borough Council's portfolio holder for culture and leisure services, said: “What an excellent achievement.

“This is based on customer reviews and ratings, so it is great to see how well received The Brindley is by the people who use it.

“Well done to all the staff and everyone involved in making our theatre such a brilliant place to visit.

“There is so much more to look forward to with the exciting enhancement project about to start.”