HOLLYOAKS star Nick Pickard was the special guest at the Alchemy Club's Celebrity Question Time at Turf Moor, Burnley.

Nick, who plays the TV soap's posh food restaurateur and serial worrier Tony Hutchinson, answered a wide variety of questions from club members and their guests.

He revealed how he got his first big acting break and the secrets of what goes on behind the scenes at a leading soap.

"We were delighted to have been able to attract Nick to what turned out to be a very special event," said Alchemy Club's Lisa Lupson.

"Nick was witty, charming and gave everyone a real insight into the life of an actor on one of the most popular soaps on TV."

The evening also gave Alchemy Club board members the chance to discuss the aims and objectives of the club, which is designed to give young people an insight into business and enterprise and support those who may want to consider starting a business.

Nikki Sanderson, who plays Coronation Street's Candice Stowe, was unable to make the event because of filming duties.

The Alchemy Club offers discounts at a variety of shops and venues for members, and runs a wide variety of workshops and special events.