SOAP star Leslie Grantham took to the stage in the region last night for the opening night of Donald Churchill's play, Love and Marriage.

He is starring alongside Stephen Boxer and Liz Izen at The Civic Theatre, in Darlington, until Saturday.

The former EastEnders "Dirty Den" character stepped in to take over the lead role of Bill in the show, left vacant by the death of actor Adam Faith.

The play takes a funny and poignant look at relationships.

For tickets, call (01325) 486555.