A MUCH-LOVED stalwart of the thriving Burnley amateur-dramatic scene is being honoured at a service at Towneley Hall today (1pm).

Dennis Murtaugh, 80, founder of the Basics Junior Theatre School which has enriched the life and experience of many local youngsters, died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Blackpool after a period of ill health.

Burnley born and bred, the father of six was admired greatly as a performer, director and producer.

He made his first stage appearances with the Co-op Youth Club as a teenager and joined Burnley Light Opera in the 1950s.

He played many leading roles for the society.

As a straight actor he appeared with The Garrick. He also appeared with Burnley G&S and St Stephen’s.

Garrick president Dorothy Spencer, who knew Mr Murtaugh for more than 50 years, said: “He was a gentleman who will be greatly missed. He wrote many articles about myself and my husband Clifford and he was a wonderful critic. He really knew his craft so knew what he was talking about which showed in his articles.

“He was never unkind — but if something needed saying he would say it. I have a house full of his reviews.”

Mr Murtaugh was instrumental in the formation of the Freelance Society in Nelson and took an active role in productions.

This led to a cabaret career as a comedian and singer.

This diversification brought him, in the 1970s, to the attention of the producers of television show The Comedians, featuring comic greats such as Norman Collier, Frank Carson and Ken Goodwin.

Mr Murtaugh was involved in the acquisition of and fund-raising for Pendle Hippodrome when local societies joined forces to buy their own theatre.

The Hippodrome started life as a cine-variety theatre which took the form of a variety bill with the silent film as the star turn, and it offered spectacular programmes.

As an adjudicator for the National Operatic and Dramatic Association, Dennis wrote many show reviews which nurtured his idea to start a theatre school for youngsters.

Basics, which recently performed Anything Goes to packed audiences, was an inspired creation which has fostered many a young acting talent, including West End stage star Andrew Derbyshire.

Mr Murtaugh will be buried during a private family service. He leaves wife Sally, six children, nine grandchildren and a great grandchild.