Devizes Wharf Theatre team ‘heartbroken’ after treasurer fraud

Theatre staff say they are “heartbroken” after their treasurer took tens of thousands of pounds from the venue.

Salisbury Crown Court heard Carol Rendell took £56,441.70 from the accounts of the Wharf Theatre in Devizes, Wiltshire, between 18 May 2019 and 5 February 2024 and covered it up by providing incorrect accounts.

The 58-year-old from Melksham – who the theatre described as a “once respected and beloved” volunteer – was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for two years, on Friday.

In a statement, the theatre said the trust of staff had been “shattered” and the team would now need to delay repairs to rebuild reserve funds.

Rendell, of Orchard Gardens, pleaded guilty to fraud by abuse of position at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court on 19 December.

As well as her suspended sentence, she was ordered to carry out 12 days of rehabilitation activity.

In a statement, the theatre’s team said Rendell was a “well-known volunteer” and described the financial impact of her crime.

They said: “We had supported Carol in many aspects of her life, and to learn that she abused her position within the theatre is both heart-breaking and shocking.”

“Every penny is now being carefully considered and instead of making enhancements to the building we are force to rebuild our reserve funds to ensure our survival.

“In addition, we no longer have reserve to future-proof our technical equipment,” the statement added.

Shonna O’Harney, from the Local Crime Investigation team at Wiltshire Police, thanked the theatre for contacting officers about the fraud.

“The Wharf Theatre is a valued asset to the community of east Wiltshire and they rely on the generosity of the community in order to continue their valuable work.

“The impact of Rendell’s actions have been felt deeply and widely,” she added.

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