MEN'S hairdresser Bernard Lally has high hopes that live theatre will remain in Crook with a little help from new friends.

As the sole survivor of a drama group which met for the first time in a private house 25 years ago, he is leading a drive to recruit new members to the Glenholme Theatre Club, in the town.

Bernard, who has appeared in nearly every club production since 1977, is confident that that the group will be able to boost its current membership of 12 to a workable 20.

From humble beginnings in that house near the Glenholme council offices, in Crook, the club graduated to its present headquarters - an old billiards room behind the town's RAFA club - in 1983.

"It has been important that we have a permanent base, with its dressing room, storage and space to build sets," said Bernard, "although we have had to rehearse in different places like local clubs, church halls and schools over the years

"The important thing is that the spirit of theatre has been kept alive in Crook for a quarter-of-a-century."

The club has managed to stage at least two plays or comedies at the the town's Civic, or Elite Hall, every year since 1977. It has also produced a highly successful pantomime each Christmas.

Although the silver jubilee falls on Thursday, April 4, the club has several social and theatrical events planned for the year.

The climax will be a production of the comedy, Don't Start Without Me, at the Civic Theatre, Crook, at the end May. Rehearsals for that show begin shortly.

l Anyone wishing to join the Glenholme Theatre Club can contact any club member or Bernard Lally on (01388) 762436.