A WEST End performer visited a drama group as members prepare to stage its version of a musical in which she starred.

Maureen Nolan has played Mrs Johnstone in Blood Brothers, both in the West End and on tour, to critical acclaim.

She recently met with members of Dryburn Theatrical Workshop, based in Chester-le-Street, ahead of their upcoming production of Blood Brothers, the Play.

Maureen, a successful actor and one of the famous Nolan Sisters singing group, has been performing since she was nine-years-old and sold more 25 million records worldwide.

Lee Passmoor, chairman of Dryburn Theatrical Workshop, said: “I met Maureen at the theatre and we have kept in touch.

"When we decided to put on Blood Brothers, the Play this September, we were over the moon when Maureen very kindly agreed to come and attend a rehearsal and share her amazing experience on stage, as well as tips and advice on the characters, the production and acting.”

The play will be at Chester-le-Street Community Centre from Wednesday, September 4 to Saturday, 7, at 7.15pm. Tickets are £7 for all on the Wednesday, and £8 for adults and £7 for concessions Thursday to Saturday, with group discounts available from 0191-388-3362, 07468-607420 or dryburntheatricalworkshop.ticketsource.co.uk