Mrs Brown's Boys con: Bearwood venue bounces back after ticket trouble

The Windsor Theatre, Bearwood, dates back to the 1930s. It has now been updated to give it a modern twist.

Late last year a fraudster, who claimed to be hosting a sell-out show featuring stars of Mrs Brown's Boys, conned regulars out of thousands of pounds.

The conman, who had advertised under several different names – including Mint Studios, was supposedly holding the events in aid of charity.

Tickets were priced as high as £35 for the show which punters thought was taking place in August.

The scheme was exposed when lawyers for Mrs Brown's Boys star Brendan O'Carroll contacted the theatre to say that they knew nothing about it.

Theatre owner Paul Fletcher said: "The ticket scam really effected us. It was just an awful con by someone who we trusted and allowed to be a part of The Windsor.

"We are now doing some fundamental changes to the venue as we realised that it needed a lot of work doing to it.

"We are keeping busy and doing well at the moment," he said.

The Windsor was originally opened as a picture and theatre venue back in the hey-day of the movies in the 1930s.

"It played host to all the latest films.

Its distinctive and imposing facade became a focal point in Bearwood with its domed roof dominating the skyline.

Sadly, the historic building was neglected until Mr Fletcher took it over in a bid to breathe new life into the venue.

Smethwick ward councillor Richard Marshall said he was delighted with the improvements at the venue which is a cornerstone of the area.

Councillor Marshall added that the revamp at The Windsor is just one of a number of positive things happening in and around Smethwick.

He said: "It's a fantastic facility and they're doing a great job there.

"I think it's Birmingham quality, but at Sandwell prices.

"With all the work that is happening in Birmingham at the moment we are definitely seeing a major ripple effect coming into Sandwell – and Bearwood in particular," he said.

"Smethwick is a hotbed for new housing and there are lots of positive things happening," said Councillor Marshall.

"The work on Lightwoods House is nearly finished and we also have the new Midland Met Hospital which will be opened up next year."