A Pembrokeshire theatre has announced the departure of its chief executive.

The Torch Theatre has revealed that Benjamin Lloyd is stepping down after five years in the role.

Mr Lloyd's time at the theatre saw the company through the challenges of the pandemic, as well as a record-breaking 45th year.

He led the theatre through a period of artistic renewal, establishing major national partnerships and co-productions.

He also focused on supporting young, vulnerable, and underrepresented groups in the community by setting up a dedicated youth and community department.

Mr Lloyd said: "It has been the honour of my professional career to lead the theatre that has given so many of us in west Wales our first, and so often only, exposure to high-quality performing arts in all its forms.

"The Torch is a minor miracle in today’s funding climate and a precious resource for the community.

"It represents a window to the world beyond and a lifeline for so many – young, old, isolated, and vulnerable – in this beautiful, far-flung part of the world."

Under his leadership, the theatre launched The Pembrokeshire Story engagement project, which brought together artists and communities to create a living archive of stories during the pandemic.

The theatre also celebrated a successful anniversary year in 2022, with five Torch productions, tours of Wales and the UK, and runs in London and Edinburgh.

Mr Lloyd also helped establish the Craidd partnership and secured long-term funding to remove barriers to mainstream theatre for deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent artists and freelancers.

He said: "However, the commitment required to sustain the Torch throughout this period has been absolute and has come at no small cost to me and to my young family.

"Now is the time for me to pass on the baton and regain some equilibrium.

"I have absolute confidence in the artistic leadership of the Torch under Chelsey Gillard, and faith in the team to continue on this exciting trajectory."

Mr Lloyd will be stepping down from his role immediately, with interim arrangements in place as the board reviews the strategic plan and objectives for his successor.

He added: "I want to thank the staff and volunteer teams (past and present) who go above and beyond to provide a warm welcome and life-enriching experiences to our patrons.

"Sincere thanks also to our partners, funders – especially colleagues at Arts Council Wales – sponsors, supporters and above all our audience members.

"Each have delivered a huge vote of confidence in my leadership and the quality in artistic and community provision delivered by our team, with their support throughout my years in post – both financial and otherwise – and it has been so very much appreciated."

Mr Lloyd also called on the government to recognise the economic and wellbeing benefits that the arts generate and deliver, and to provide adequate funding and support.

He said: "Our theatres, at their best, are citadels of expression and inclusion that play a vital role in forging social cohesion, place-making and sustaining communities, particularly in times of social decline and unrest.

"However, such venues within the funded arts sector cannot continue to exist on the goodwill and the commitment of their overextended workforce and require adequate funding and support if they are to continue to prosper."

Katrina Marsh, chairperson of the Torch Theatre board of management, said: "On behalf of the board and staff team we extend our thanks to Ben for his dedication and leadership through the most challenging period in our history.

"His commitment to the Torch, its artists and the people of Pembrokeshire has left a legacy that we will seek to protect and build on.

"We wish Ben and his family well in their future endeavours and will be working with the senior management team to continue the delivery of our operational and strategic plans."