A POPULAR Blackburn Empire Theatre volunteer who was described as ‘the perfect gentleman’ has died at the age of 57.

Ray Galatola had helped out at the theatre for many years.

Michael Berry, the theatre’s chairman, said: “Ray did many things to help the Empire Theatre including IT control, front of house duties, bar duties and many other things too.

“He was a quiet individual, who was totally reliable and skilful in everything that he did for us. He was unassuming and he was a perfect gentleman.

“He has suffered with his health during the last months, but not once did he complain."

Mr Galatola died at East Lancashire Hospice on Wednesday. He leaves his partner Shelagh, daughters Alice and Emily and siblings Denise, Jenny, Sue and John.