ENTHUSIASTS from Bury's only amateur dramatics club enjoyed a taste of the actors life with a bubbly celebration to mark their 30th anniversary.

Members of St Joseph's Players gathered for a meal at the Red Hall in Walmersley, where they were addressed by chairman Norman Hardman.

When the group was formed, Bury boasted at least eight amateur dramatics groups.

In his speech, Mr Hardman noted with both sadness and pride that St Joseph's was now the only such group in the town.

He said: "St Joseph's Players is unique in that it is not just a society, but it is a family that values and cares for each and every member, and that above all is why we are here today.

"We have many members who have come and gone, and whose efforts and dedication we should acknowledge.

"However, we have always had a core of members who have been our rock, each one knowing their strengths and offering their services unstintingly."

A separate celebration with champagne was held at St Joseph's Social Centre, in Taylor Street.

Next week the group lay on a special triple bill, to coincide with their celebrations (20&21Nov)

Members will stage the plays What Shall We do With the Body?, Somebody for Dinner and One Across at St John's Hall in Parkinson Street, Seedfield.

The plays are showing next Thursday and Friday,(Nov20,21) with performances beginning at 7.30pm.

Tickets, which cost £5 including supper, are available by calling 764 3601 or 797 8745.