Falling panel hits three audience members at Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn

The theatre's management has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the incident, which took place on Friday evening.

Management said that "further precautionary measures" have been introduced to prevent a repeat.

• Theatre Severn, which cost £28 million, was opened in 2009 by the Earl of Wessex

• It has hosted a range of top performers and productions

• The venue took three years to build and was approved on September 26, 2005, with construction beginning the following year

• It features a 650-seat main auditorium, complete with air-conditioning and full technical facilities, and a 250-seat studio theatre

Despite being treated at the scene, all three people were able to leave the venue without any need for further medical attention.

David Jack, venues and programme manager for Theatre Severn, said all shows would continue as planned.

The wooden acoustic panel fell into the upper circle of the theatre's main auditorium after the conclusion of a performance of the sell-out West End show, The Simon and Garfunkel Story.

Mr Jack said the remaining panels within the auditorium have been checked to ensure they are secure.

He said: "An incident occurred on Friday, February 27, as the audience were leaving the performance in the main auditorium at Theatre Severn.

"An acoustic panel fell and made contact with three members of the audience in the Upper Circle. All were treated on site, by both St John's and Shrewsbury emergency services, and all three left the venue without need for any further treatment.

"In light of the incident, and with audience safety at the venue of paramount importance, we can confirm further precautionary measures have been taken, and all of the remaining acoustic panels are secure.

"A full investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.

"The venue has confirmed that their current programme is unaffected and all shows will continue as planned."

The theatre was closed in January for routine maintenance. That work involved the ground floor foyer and other public areas.

Routine maintenance is often undertaken at the theatre in January and August and is scheduled to ensure no disruption to its programme of live events.