A determination to see the Byre theatre in St Andrews re-open was signalled after a major meeting in Fife between key funders.

The theatre has closed after being forced into liquidation, prompting a campaign to save the building, a venue in the city for 80 years.

Fife Council hosted a meeting yesterday with Fiona Hyslop, the Culture Secretary, and Iain Munro, director of Creative Scotland, as well as Fife MSPs and leading councillors.

David Ross, deputy leader of Fife Council, said: "There is a lot of hard work already under way to ensure a positive future for the Byre and the good news is everyone gave a fresh commitment to work together and with the Fife Cultural Trust to find a viable solution for the long-term future of the Byre. At the moment the liquidation process is still under way and the council is working with Creative Scotland and the liquidators to retain the fixtures and fittings needed for the future operation of the theatre.

"I am pleased there is a real will among all the organisations to see the Byre open again as soon as is realistically possible."

Ms Hyslop said: "I was impressed by the passion and determination of those present at the meeting, which was very positive and constructive. These discussions have the full support of the Scottish Government."